Monday Morning Musings
Volume XXIV, Number 35 (Issue 1196) August 31, 2026
Battling Complacency – Part VI Connections and Actuators
The Appeal of a Worthwhile Mission
Do you know someone who is actively engaged as a volunteer with a charitable organization? Perhaps it is you. If so, can you speak to the nature of the connection? That is, what is in it for you (or them)? Generally, many choose to devote blocks of precious time, not to mention personal resources and expertise to charitable causes as the result of a highly personal connection to the cause or those being served. Other times the commitment stems from friendships formed with other dedicated volunteers. Whatever the pull and attraction, countless individuals find incredible fulfillment (an intangible paycheck of sorts) via their volunteerism. Which is a good thing, a marvelous thing, since the list of worthwhile initiatives is long and growing while genuinely engaged workers are far too few.
For twenty-four years my wife, Sandy, devoted much of her time, talent, and attention to serving as a member of the board of trustees of one of Texas’ largest independent school districts. When she chose not to stand for re-election in 2024, it left a void in her days and in her heart given her passion for children and their education. Thus, when a new opportunity arose to get involved with a charitable organization that provides new clothes, shoes, hygiene kits, and books to elementary age children attending Title 1 schools and preschool age children enrolled in Head Start programs, she jumped at the chance. Of course, Sandy is not unique in her desire and commitment to serving others. Nor is passion for a worthwhile cause confined to the non-profit arena.
Many of us work for organizations where both the work and mission are personally and profoundly appealing. While we are financially compensated for our labor, knowing what we do has a meaningful impact on others, their dreams and well-being is the special sauce that feeds our inner spirit.
Using myself once again as an example. I spent the first half of my professional career doing technical things that seemed to fit my talents and personality. During that period, I made a good living and enjoyed much of the work – until I didn’t. As I look back, I lost interest in the work in large part because I no longer felt my efforts were having a net positive impact on others. So, when in 1996 I had a revelation that connected more of my gifts with what I saw as a need, I made a change. For the record that is when my focus shifted to human capital and helping others realize more of their potential. Fulfilling my newfound purpose was not easy. I spent years retooling myself and taking two steps forward to then take one step back. But gradually it began to pay off for all involved, myself included.
The phenomenon I have described is that seemingly rarest states of being where someone is completely sold on and bought into a compelling mission and vision. Absent that worthy, inspiring cause, for many work is merely a job that serves their needs, to heck with the wants and needs of others. Hence, the birth and growth of complacency. But it need not be that way. Leadership can ordain and instill that which is special if they are so inclined.
One aspect of this connection which must not be overlooked is the role leadership plays in helping those who do not directly interface with the client or customer see the link between their actions and the fulfillment of the mission. Regular messaging and acknowledgement are key in this. It is also crucial for those who do interact directly with the customer not to fall into the trap of thinking their efforts are all that matter. Far from it, for without the excellent work of those in the background, fulfilling the mission and achieving the vision would be impossible. To state the obvious, it takes a team. For those working behind the scenes, it is knowing there are only one or two rather than six degrees separating them from the ultimate beneficiary.
Next week we will examine the role of those who endeavor to lead by their example.
Soli Deo Gloria
“For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love.” 2 Peter 1:5-7
J. Keith Hughey
Mobile: (210) 260-0955
E-mail: keith@jkeithhughey.com
Website: www.jkeithhughey.com
Transforming Potential into Unmatched Performance
Copyright 2026 by J. Keith Hughey. All rights reserved. Permission is hereby granted for reproduction and redistribution of this essay as provided under the copyright laws of the United States of America. Recent issues of Musings may be found at www.jkeithhughey.com. Your comments are both welcomed and encouraged.