Lazy people have in general a negative connotation. But are they really that despicable? Or did we just embedded this idea because we’re the “hard workers” the ones with merit? Can a lazy person be as productive as a “hard worker” (or at least reaching the same objectives)? I leave that up to you and your own experiences.
Regardless how you look at a lazy person, here are a few things any of us would benefit from observing them:
- Say No. How often saying “yes” to be nice turns our agenda and life upside down?
- Make breaks. Every hour they take 5 minute short walk.
- Don’t wonder what people think. They’re just as they are, acting according to their personalities. Remember you’ll never please everybody.
- Dress consistently simple – Jeans/shirt, Jeans/T’shirt. They don’t spend time and energy thinking what to wear every day.
- Take the first parking spot they see. Why should they risk and complicate their life? They have to walk a bit longer? Good, then they’ll enjoy the walk.
- Carry cash and a credit card. This way they’ll avoid unnecessary discussions or last minute worries.
- Avoid small talk. It’s completely useless and a waste of time. They smile, stay silent and move on (eventually greeting but avoiding small talkers to step into their journey).
- Don’t answer the phone, prefer text/email (say so in their voice mails). This works as a filter of the small talks, trivial talks and what really matters.
- Plan their day in advance. Time block their activities throughout the day assuring proper “energy recovery” moments and coffee breaks.
- Invest time into thinking about how to compete a task before starting it.
- Find the right people to do the task. Colleagues like to take responsibility and feel empowered.
- Thank people honestly. This will allow them credibility and availability when needed.
- Let go. They’re very good at this. When most people give up (remaining bitter, angry, disappointed or frustrated) they just let it go. Move on, turn the page with no looking back or digging too much in the past.
- Share their accomplishments. They don’t lose an opportunity to highlight their succes.
You’ll probably remember Bill gates quote “I’ll chose a lazy person to do a hard job. Because a lazy person will find an easy way to do it”.
Offices are full of “busy” people, but don’t forget….Lazy people are always busy.