Phooey! [Personal and Professional Growth]

The author explained his expression like "phooey" is actually the acronym of FOI which stand for focus, ownership and initiative. Over the years, I have found these three words-focus, ownership, initiative-have provided a focus for my work efforts. As an instructor and teacher, I found that focus on presentations and student achievement contributed to success for those being trained. Ownership was also important, in being willing to admit to workmanship, even when problems were being solved-as a result of your effort. Perhaps the most difficult aspect of the three was initiative. Many people are reluctant to undertake work that has not been assigned but yet is necessary. I found through my career it was always easier to ask forgiveness rather than permission. In my current work assignment I am known as the "junk man," as I continue to work the odd jobs with which others don't wish to become involved. The learning experience has been fantastic and the sense of accomplishment self-rewarding. Remember focus, ownership, and initiative, three simple words that can go a long way in ensuring a success for you in your career.