FeaturedLeadershipLeanSix Sigma

This is the worst it’s ever been

By Ron Pereira Updated on February 11th, 2011

I’m typically a glass is half full kind of guy.

But I also believe the phrase “This is the worst it’s ever been…” just may be the mission statement successful people and organizations live by. 

You see, while it’s good to celebrate that successful kaizen event, or securing that huge order, or even winning the championship game… individuals and organization’s that hope to succeed over the long term must never grow satisfied with where they’re at.

Instead, they must constantly realize that this is indeed the worst it’s ever been.  As such, there’s only one solution… make it better.

Do you agree?

Ron Pereira

Ron has more than 20 years of experience in various manufacturing, supply chain, and senior leadership roles. Ron has held the titles of process engineer, engineering manager, master black belt, and director of manufacturing & continuous improvement. In 2002 Ron was the first American to win the Nokia Global Six Sigma and Overall Quality award in Helsinki, Finland. Ron holds a bachelor's degree in automated manufacturing and an MBA in technology management.

  1. Trey Williams

    February 11, 2011 - 6:38 am
    Reply

    They say the best time for Kaizen is when times are good. So yes I do agree.

    • Ron Pereira

      February 11, 2011 - 8:07 am

      Thanks, Trey. I love that saying as well!

  2. Jeremy Garner

    February 11, 2011 - 8:04 am
    Reply

    I agree in the sense that it can always be better but it can certainly always be worse. Different cultures are motivated by different things. When I hear “This is the worst it’s ever been” it carries a feeling of despair. We should never deny the reality of any situation. However, a vision is what inspires creativity and work against the odds. We should “glance” at our current status but we should “stare” at our opportunities for improvement. Celebrating accomplishment gives a boost in the momentum toward continued kaizen efforts AND reflection gives us the chance to maximize those efforts.

    • Ron Pereira

      February 11, 2011 - 8:08 am

      Thanks, Jeremy. Great insights, as usual. Have a great day and weekend!

    • Jeremy Garner

      February 11, 2011 - 8:32 am

      Thanks for your feed back Ron! I have been in manufacturing for over 13 years and am only in my second semester in pursuit of my Bus. Ad. degree. I know I have a lot to learn. I’m sure this phrase helps many keep a humble, clear mind toward Kaizen. Makes me think of the scripture “Blessed are the poor in spirit for there’s is the kingdom of God”. Humility gives us access to the wealth of Heaven. And what’s true in matters of the heart will most assuredly prove true for matters of business. You have a great weekend as well; )

  3. Maria Santiago

    February 11, 2011 - 8:19 am
    Reply

    A very nice post. I really belive this statement to be true. In Mexico we know that for business to survive we must think this way.

    • Ron Pereira

      February 11, 2011 - 8:37 am

      Thanks, Maria. You are definitely not alone in Mexico as any organization that feels exempt from improving is surely an organization doomed for failure.

  4. Mark Welch

    February 11, 2011 - 8:29 am
    Reply

    Bottom line – gotta keep the tension alive – the tension that doesn’t result in despair but drives us to constantly reach and improve. IMHO, thinking “This is the wost it’s ever been” may lead toward despair. That kind of thinking might be O.K. waaaaaay early in a lean journey just to acknowledge a crisis and drive people to “get after it,” but like you, Ron, I’m a glass half full kind of guy and “worst it’s ever been” should be a very rare status as long as we’re moving in the right direction.

    • Ron Pereira

      February 11, 2011 - 8:38 am

      Thanks, Mark. I always enjoy reading your thoughts. Have a great one!

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