Let’s be honest. Nobody enjoys disciplining others. Well, maybe some do, but most avoid it like the plague. As managers and business owners this is an unavoidable part of your job, though. Therefore my first tip is to embrace it.
1. Embrace discipline.
Recognize that it’s essential to instilling boundaries for behavior. Without correction, boundaries are unknown. Studies have shown that missing boundaries results in hesitancy, fear and even paranoia. Discipline always will exist in high-performance organizations. Embrace it.
2. Discover the positive side of discipline.
One of the reasons many shy away from discipline is because they believe it’s always a negative experience. Discover the positive side of discipline. Discipline doesn’t need to be harsh, mean or hurtful. In many situations discipline may be gentle, loving and healing. Successful disciplinary action will result in a better situation than before the discipline was given. This is the positive side.
Discipline that comes off as harsh, mean or hurtful is usually that which has been delayed until there’s a major issue.
3. Discipline early and often.
When discipline is delayed, the problem builds. What began as a small issue becomes a big issue. Sometimes the issue is so large it blows up into a massive mess, resulting in all sorts of bad things, including termination. Nip it in the bud.
Successful managers learn to embrace discipline, see it as a positive management tool and discipline early and often. In doing these three things, their people then enjoy the reassurance of gentle correction when they need it and are never blindsided. They, like their managers, will understand effective discipline produces optimal results.
I encourage you to consider your ways. Your people will be glad you did.
