Lean Quote: Dogged Persistence Will Ensure Lean Actually Happen

On Fridays I will post a Lean related Quote. Throughout our lifetimes many people touch our lives and leave us with words of wisdom. These can both be a source of new learning and also a point to pause and reflect upon lessons we have learned. Within Lean active learning is an important aspect on this journey because without learning we can not improve.

"Little drops of water wear down big stones." — Russian Proverb

It is truly miraculous to think that tiny droplets of H2O can team up and relentlessly, persistently, determinedly beat down on a stone to subsequently wear, carve, and sculpt. I like to think of this as a lesson in how we should approach hindrances and roadblocks in our Lean journey. What do you do when you hit a rock in in the path? Do you back-off and become discouraged, only to slow the flow of your persistence?

Striving for excellence is an ongoing process that requires persistence. I often say that it is the Lean leader who must apply constant gentle pressure if they want Lean to be a success. Dogged persistence will assure that lean actually happens.

Think of the water droplets and their undeterred poise in carrying out the task at hand—wearing away stone. Whatever the stone may be that lies as a nuisance on your path—meet it, wear it down, and break it!

Never give up; keep going, especially when the road is not so clear.



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