Respect breeds more respect especially when challenging issues or times arise. Here's how respect plays out at Fishhook.

I could go on and on about the definition of respect, how important it is within a team, or how it shapes the energy and momentum toward achieving your vision and goals. But let's just cut to the chase: here's how respect (and some might say trust) looks at Fishhook.

Note: With input from my Fishhook pals, the info below expresses some of our collective viewpoints.

  • THE FUN: We mix buffoonery and actual work from one minute to the next. It's true, and it leads to deep respect. We laugh and enjoy each Fishhooker's strengths, habits and challenges all at the same time.
  • HOW WE INTERACT & DEAL WITH CONFLICT: Respect is evident in the fact that there's no backstabbing, no complaining about one another, or questioning where someone is. And, if/when there is an issue, the response is: "You should talk to him/her." Or, "Let's work through this together.'" This is powerful. It minimizes the drama and maximizes the healthy conversation and support. 
  • DECISION MAKING: Respect for one another means that we're empowered to make any decision, at any time, for the benefit of our clients or members of our team. When time allows, we discuss and plan as a team. But if something pressing arises, we're free to act and make the best decision we can at any time.
  • AS PEOPLE: We routinely say that our most significant work in life will NOT be what we do at Fishhook. Our most significant work is done in our homes, churches and with others beyond work. We're encouraged to set boundaries, say "no," and have a healthy life/work balance. And while we always try to find ways to say "yes" to our clients, we're also working to respect and help one another become the people God is calling each of us to be.
  • OUR FAMILIES: We respect the roles that each of us may play as a spouse, mom or dad. For me personally, this is a significant way that I feel respected at Fishhook. I have a modified work schedule so that I can often be home with my daughters before/after school and on their school breaks. My team members regularly tell me that they respect and are thankful that I get to balance both my work at Fishhook and be with my kids in this way. And it's not just for me. We respect each person in this way. We love when one of the dads on our team works from home to care for a sick child, when someone leaves to walk her dog on a beautiful day, or if someone is having a mid-day lunch date with their spouse!  
  • EVEN WHEN THINGS DON'T GO MY WAY: Not every situation or decision with our team goes MY way. But because of the lengthy list of examples given above, it's relatively easy to respect and trust that the decisions being made are the best for our team, our clients and the work we are called to do. Respect breeds more respect, especially when challenging issues or times arise.  

Is this the list you expected? Or not? What does respect look like for your team? What examples would you give?

If you liked this blogpost, view other entries from "The Fishhook Vibe" series: