What are the advantages of inconsistency?

Many workshops and tough discussions among management end with the adoption of a new strategy. Everyone seems to understand how important the strategic realignment is. The strategy is presented, the measures are defined and budgeted. With a great deal of commitment, the (daily) work begins. And a year later, it turns out that implementation has largely fallen by the wayside.

Was the strategy too ambitious or misguided? Was it too late, too early, or was it due to unfavorable weather conditions? Arguments are presented that, individually, seem entirely reasonable. However, how does management respond? Do they accept the numerous reasons for the failure and resign themselves to the circumstances? Or do they take a firm stance against them?

I perceive a tendency toward a creeping increase in inconsistency. This is tacitly tolerated by those at the top—and often exemplified by them. After all, the fish stinks from the head down. As long as the numbers are still reasonably accurate, the implementation process will not be consistently monitored.

How do you deal with inconsistency yourself? How does it make you feel? Have you come to terms with it? Does it bother you because you yourself are consistent? Do you confront it and actively fight against inconsistency?

What are the consequences if the consistent implementation of the plans falls by the wayside?

• Lethargy increases. Everyone gets used to the situation. Ultimately, the organization lacks strength.
• It upsets those employees who work conscientiously and follow the rules.
• If implementation is half-hearted, it ties up resources and therefore costs money.
• Unrest is growing, confidence is falling. ("If that's not valid, then was everything else invalid too?")

Inconsistency makes you untrustworthy. Untrustworthiness is a poor basis for cooperation, makes leadership impossible and thus success. Professionalism means getting things done, not trying to do things. Professionalism means taking time to think and then tackling things with determination.

Three tips for leading more consistently.

1. Promises are words of honor. That's why you should only ask for what's important.
   Start with yourself first. Do you do exactly what you say and lead by example? This starts with small things, such as arriving on time for meetings and meeting deadlines.Small things reveal who is capable of achieving great things.

2. Define crystal-clear goals and establish controls.
   Purely qualitative goals ("We need to create better offers") are useless. They only cause more confusion. Quantify your goals and responsibility actions with deadlines and clear responsibility . Who, what, by when, and put it in writing.
   Control is an important tool for achieving goals (see blog"Every employee has a right to control!"). Set the control dates early on and reserve the time in your agenda. This will ensure that urgent matters do not take precedence over important ones.

3. Check and engage in the discussion.
   It goes without saying that you should carry out these checks consistently. Be prepared to engage in confrontation. Overcome your fear of being uncomfortable. Be clear when addressing negative deviations, while remaining respectful. Do not tolerate excuses. Instead of asking "Why isn't the order finished yet?",ask "What measures are you taking to ensure that the order is completed?".

But what are the advantages of inconsistency? Some people argue that inconsistency in your private life can help you achieve a better work-life balance. The idea behind this is to live your life instead of always having to function everywhere. I disagree completely. What applies at work also applies in your private life: you can only generate credibility here through consistent behavior; consistency creates a guardrail for your partner and family, it creates trust and a secure anchor. Even at home and in your personal environment, you can only demand what you exemplify. And that's not only exhausting, it also brings deep satisfaction and relaxation.