“We do not remember days, we remember moments.”

Written by Cesare Pavese, an Italian poet of the early 20th century and thought of as a major writer in Italy.

I fully agree with his point and I would like you to think about it as you go about your day. As managers, we plan out tomorrow, next week, next month, next season, next year and that is fine and that is what we are expected to do.

But the impact of what we do with the people around us is counted in moments. They can add up, for good or ill, or they can be a bolt of lightning, especially for those that report to us. You are you and confident in your job and skills but they look up to you. They may have one moment a day with you, one moment a week. Think of the impact of that moment on them as they prepare for that brief chance to impress you. Now imagine that you are rushed or preoccupied or thinking of your own moment with your boss. Do you give them the time and attention they need? That they deserve?

Just consider this and the impact you can have with each person until you walk out the door at the end of the day. Wave to the desk clerk who remains behind, or chat a moment with the lobby attendant or server or security officer. Your last chance daily. And remember as you walk in tomorrow morning that someone was probably there before you and could use a smile or a handshake. Share the moment.

Also, remember that they will stack up. Your reputation will precede you and it will linger after you’re gone. Be in, stay in the moment. You have the rest of the day to do what you’re doing. I hope you can get back out there and Make it a Great Day filled with great moments.