As I stare endlessly into a blank Word document on my computer screen suffering from writer’s block, the tension mounts to present “Don’t Be A Jerk.” Let me start by offering you my all-time biggest jerk list:
- (tie) David Friedman and Andy Weiner
- Genghis Khan
- Attila the Hun
- J.R. Ewing
- Woody Hayes
- Earl Weaver
Wait, what? Why am I including David Friedman (the mastermind behind our RockStep culture)and Andy Weiner (President of RockStep Capital) amongst a list of ruthless warmongers, a fictitious oil baron and fiery sports leaders? Because these are the two men responsible for creating and holding us accountable to this cultural insanity. The process of living up to the RockSteps and periodically writing an essay is hard. It completely takes me out of my comfort zone and challenges me every day. Both personally and professionally, I am constantly judging my actions against our company’s culture. And when it comes time for me to write and present a RockStep essay to hundreds of people across the country it causes me great stress and anxiety.
In retrospect, over the past few years of this cultural adherence, I truly believe I have seen more growth within myself than ever before. I am more accountable for my actions, more
responsive, more committed and more willing to speak out. I am a better co-worker, better
friend and better family member. Most importantly it goes beyond me. I think you will see this
same growth amongst all of us as a RockStep team. While improvement has been made, we
have a long way to go. We are committed to working on our growth, day to day, week by week.
“Being Relentless About Improvement.” A commitment to growing our brand.
As the RockStep Team is rolling down this cultural super-highway, I must pause and “Practice Blameless Problem Solving.” I realize it was me who was being a jerk, not David and Andy. Let me “Show Meaningful Appreciation” and offer my most sincere apology to both men. I will now “Do the Right Thing Always” and remove them from my quick-witted jerk list and place
them on another list that includes some of the greatest influences on my life.
