What are the little things that “won’t ever go wrong” in your organization?

What is a trivial thing? Jesus said, “Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much” (Luke 16:10). Yes there are things that are less important, things that are not as weighty (Matt. 23:23). Indeed there are people and things that are lowly esteemed, that are the “least of these” (Matt. 25:40; 1 Cor. 6:4;

The major goal may be sales results, or how many people we reached this month. However, the progress toward achieving these “important things” will be impeded if little things are neglected. Success in the major goals always depends on how well the parts and players are meshing. Interaction within the organization will be smoother if little things are managed well.

“Trivial” can mean things that seem unimportant compared to the major goals and mission of the organization. So it is with our lives.

• Keeping up with expense reports
• Showing up at the office on time
• Regular exercise
• Keeping promises about little things
• Saying thanks
• Keeping your hands clean
• Proper sneezing protocol
• Cleaning up after yourself in the breakroom
• Time on email
• Timely responses to email
• Getting down on the same level when you talk to your kids
• Oil changes in your vehicle
• Watching cholesterol

This famous proverb can be traced back to the 1200s –

For want of a nail the shoe was lost,
For want of a shoe the horse was lost,
For want of a horse the rider was lost,
For want of a rider the battle was lost,
For want of a battle the Kingdom was lost,
And all for the want of a horseshoe nail.

Probably the best way to assure that little things are cared for in our organization is to set the trend by remembering the little things ourselves, leading by example. Then contribute to this pattern by the “little thing” of thankfulness – always affirm and acknowledge those who are faithful in things that seem trivial.