Have you ever noticed a small issue at work—perhaps a misplaced item, an incomplete task, or a process that could be improved—and simply walked past it? We've all done it. In that moment, we've unconsciously set a new standard, one that accepts mediocrity over excellence.
"The standard you walk past is the standard you accept."
This profound statement encapsulates a fundamental truth about human behavior and organizational culture. It reminds us that our actions—or inactions—define what becomes normal in our environments.
Why Standards Matter
When we allow things to fall below our ideal standard, that lower bar becomes the new norm. This silent acceptance creates a ripple effect that can transform entire cultures, whether in our workplaces or our homes.
Think about it: each time we overlook a shortcoming, we're essentially saying, "This is good enough." Over time, "good enough" becomes all we can expect.
The Principle in Action: Real-World Examples
In Healthcare
Example 1: A hospital where a team member notices hand sanitizer dispensers are empty but says nothing. This seemingly small oversight can literally turn into a matter of life and death.
Example 2: A hospital noted to have exceptionally low Infection rates has embraced a principle of "See Something, Say Something" that expects ANY member who notices an issue (from an empty sanitizer dispenser to a potential medication error) to speak up immediately!
In Hospitality
Example 1: A housekeeper in a busy hotel notices a small stain on a bedsheet but decides it's not worth the time to change. The next housekeeper comes along and notices the same stain and now assumes this is an acceptable practice. Soon, slightly stained sheets become the unspoken norm.
Example 2: In a 5-star hotel, staff are trained to never walk past anything out of place (a napkin on the floor, a crooked painting, a smudge on a mirror); all are immediately addressed, maintaining an environment of excellence that guests can see (and feel) the moment they enter.
In Education
Example 1: A school teacher who accepts late assignments without consequence soon finds that deadlines become mere suggestions to students.
Example 2: A school teacher who maintains consistent expectations, is very clear about standards while providing support to students to meet them — cultivates an environment where students learn the value of respect and accountability.
The Personal Dimension: Standards in Our Homes
This principle extends beyond our professional lives. Consider parenting — when we overlook a child's disrespectful tone "just this once," we're teaching them that respectful communication is more optional than what is expected.
Example: A family creating a visual "Family Standards Board" where everyone agrees upon certain standards and expectations. When any member of the family notices something below the standard, they address it immediately (not with blame, but with a simple reminder), "This doesn't meet our standard." The children grow up understanding accountability and the satisfaction of maintaining expected standards.
How to Apply This Principle Effectively
- DEFINE CLEAN STANDARDS: You can't uphold what you haven't defined. Make expectations explicit.
- MODEL THE BEHAVIOR: Leaders must embody the standards they wish to see.
- CREATE PSYCHOLOGICAL SAFETY: People need to feel safe pointing out when standards aren't being met.
- ADDRESS ISSUES IMMEDIATELY: The longer a substandard condition exists, the more it becomes normalized.
- CELEBRATE WHEN STANDARDS ARE UPHELD: Positive reinforcement strengthens the culture of excellence.
This isn't about perfectionism—it's about intentionality. It's about creating environments where excellence is expected, mediocrity is addressed, and improvement is constant.
Your Challenge
Spend a couple of days being hyper-aware of the standards you walk past. At work, at home, and throughout your community—notice what you're silently accepting.
Then...
- Take one small action
- Address one thing you would normally walk past
- Notice how it feels
Remember, change doesn't require grand gestures. It requires consistent attention to the small things that, together, define your standards of excellence!
