Many times in my life I have thought and sometimes verbally expressed that results are many times more important than process.

Until recently, however, I’m not sure I really understood what that meant and how I actualized that. Now I think I am beginning to really get it.

Several times, mostly in my working and business life, I have been told by persons I worked with and those that I employed that I was the best person they had worked for or around. Kenley Sorenson and Warren Zumwalt have told me that on more than one occasion, along with others whose names I can’t remember.

I also developed a group of subcontractors and suppliers that were good at their craft, always did their best, and answered the call when needed.

Now I think I am beginning to understand why.

When I had a design idea, a finished plan, or an emergency that needed to be completed or dealt with, I tried my best to make people understand what I wanted or needed to get done, tried to make sure they had the tools or resources they needed, and trusted them to get the job done with as little interference from me as possible. I was always there if they needed something or advice, but I did my best to stay out of the way and let them do their job.

It was interesting to see that if there were several persons involved in whatever there was to be done, a natural leader always took over—and it wasn’t always the designated supervisor or more senior person. It usually was the person with the most expertise or best leadership qualities for the task of the moment that rose to the occasion.

I sometimes looked at that “style” of delegation as me just being lazy. But maybe it was the best way to get the job done and make my life easier so I could get on to other things.

I only wish that I had been a better business person so that I could have made a more successful financial life for myself.

Ken Kaiyala
10-10-2021

Addendum: I even see that in my one-person shop these days, in my personal design and manufacturing. If a simple sketch will suffice, why do a fancy drawing. If a power tool will be more efficient, why get hung up on being a purist and use only hand tools. I guess results really are what’s most important.