Over the holidays my husband and I went to an all-inclusive resort. We arrived just in time for the New Year’s Eve celebration. 

In years past, this resort threw a great party. It was a big event. A six-course meal was on the docket, as was an extensive line-up of entertainers, dancing, and fireworks. We were excited.  

At 7:30 the festivities began. Everyone arrived with enthusiasm, dressed in their party outfits - lots of glam and glitter that complimented the ballroom’s sparkling decor.  

We were greeted with champagne and music from a jazz duo that mesmerized us with their smoky, lyrical ballads. Shortly thereafter the first two courses were served. Both were light, tasty treats, that delighted us with their unique flavour. It was a perfect start to the night.  

After that, things started to go downhill. The food dishes kept coming every 20-30 minutes but decreased in quality and flavour. The entertainment changed too.  

A master of ceremonies replaced the jazz duo, loudly introducing a long line of performers. An aerialist soared above our tables. A dance troupe performed a number on stage. A pop band performed a few cover songs. A man walked on stilts, while another rode a trick bike around the front of the ballroom.  

It was a lot. All of it. Layers upon layers of excess. None of it particularly good. 

I couldn’t help but think that the night would have been better if we had exchanged quantity with quality. Fewer courses, with better tasting food would have been preferred. I also would have been happy listening to the jazz duo all night. It was simple but they were fantastic. The others were mediocre, and layering mediocrity upon mediocrity doesn’t make excellence. 

I also couldn’t help thinking how many businesses or organizations do this exact thing. Rather than homing in, fine tuning, and creating excellence with a specific program, product, or service, they add more options without any of them being particularly great.  

I think this is something many of struggle with. We want to offer a variety of choices or opportunities. But achieving or maintaining quality is often not possible, especially if you’re stretched too thin.  

What we need to remember is that more is not more. We need excellence. Not additional options. 

As a challenge this week, I invite you to assess yourself, your role, department, or business. Are you achieving excellence? Or are you simply adding more? Slowing down or scaling back to add value might be required.  

In the end, who is going to want to invest in what we have to offer if it isn’t superior? Sometimes reducing our workload and offerings are necessary to provide a high level of quality and service. 

Something to consider. 

Best wishes, Lauren

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