In my work with organizations I often see a disparity between the espoused values of the business and the way people treat one another. This is particularly noticeable in the area of "respect for each other", which seems to appear in one form or another in every set of values I've seen. Sometimes the lack of respect is acute with poor treatment quite obvious. More often though, it is the subtle form of disrespect that occurs when someone deserves our attention and we split our focus or multi task. We have all done this, and there are times that it is certainly warranted. A critical client situation, a family issue needing to be dealt with, a colleague in need of immediate help. Those ought to be exceptions to the rule, however; too many leaders do this routinely. When you are talking with someone, or in a meeting with a group, give them your attention. If your attention needs to be elsewhere, then by all means take a quick break and handle what is required of you. But if you want to show respect, one of the most important ways you can do so is with your attention.

A Slice of Life Balance           

• If your vacation time isn't planned for 2014 yet, do so immediately. Summer will be here sooner than you think.
• Take a break at least twice per day. It can be for 5-10 minutes, but get away from your desk. Preferably outside.  Regardless of what you think you don't operate like a machine.