Having a System Makes Life Better...

I once hated to fly Southwest Air…

I called it the “cattle call”…

I loved the energy of the company…the way they treat employees…their ability to remain profitable in a challenging market…

…but I hated flying them. I always seemed to end up stuck in the middle seat behind two really big guys…

I would choose another airline whenever I could…

But then I learned their system….

Once I learned the system, and developed my own strategy for traveling within the Southwest system, I was able to check-in early online, get a good number in which to board the plane, and find a good seat….

Having a system helped me love Southwest…

Now I actually choose Southwest over other airlines anytime I can…

That story illustrates an important principle in life and leadership…

Sometimes that which you dread doing or hate the most, just needs a plan…a better system…

Develop or learn the system and it will make life easier and you’ll better enjoy a more successful ride…

What in your life needs a better system for the new year?

Comments (12)

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Tweets that mention Having a System Makes Life Better… @ Ron Edmondson -- Topsy.com

[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by Ron Edmondson, Artie Davis. Artie Davis said: @RonEdmondson Good thoughts! http://bit.ly/6PN72f [...]

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John Richardson 64p · 795 weeks ago

Boy I can relate to this post, Ron. Southwest can be awful. It seems that solving tough problems like this can lead to great opportunities. Something for all of us to think about for the new year.

1 reply · active 795 weeks ago

ronedmondson 127p · 795 weeks ago

Thanks John for your comment. I love great opportunities!

Kathy_Nicholls 4p · 795 weeks ago

A timely post for me as the new year begins and so glad I found this through someone's tweet! Thank you for posting it. I am working now to set up the new system for the new year and believe it will make all the difference.

Thanks Kathy! Hope it works well for you in the new year.

JasonWert 83p · 795 weeks ago

Always amazes me how one little thing can completely change an experience.

Good add Jason.

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Christi Day · 795 weeks ago

Hey Ron!

Thanks for figuring out a system and sticking with us! We value you as a Customer! Nice blog post, I'll be back : )

Christi
@southwestair

Thanks Christi. I feel very honored to have your comment! Can I get some additional frequent flier miles? J/k

Yohan Perera · 795 weeks ago

True, even preaching could become a headache when you don't have a plan/system

Good point Yohan.

Goals, Vision, Planning…Blah, Blah, Blah: How about some Clarity 101 – Will Mancini

[...] that works for you. Here is an excellent little post by Ron Edmondson, on the power of a system: Having a System Makes Life Better. Read this in light of your current stance toward vision and planning, both personally and [...]