What You Can Learn from a Toasted PB&J

When I was in high school, the cafeteria staff would take the leftover peanut butter and jelly sandwiches from one day’s lunch, toast them, and serve them as toasted peanut butter and jelly sandwiches the next morning at breakfast.

It was an amazing treat, and thinking about this recently made me realize that sometimes a small change can take something that’s really good and make it even better.

I decided this morning to search Google for that toasted peanut butter and jelly sandwich and was surprised to find over 28 million results. It’s a fun reminder that whether it’s a peanut butter and jelly sandwich in your life—or something else—a small tweak can elevate a good thing to greatness.

In the world of leadership, this concept holds true as well. Small, intentional changes can lead to significant improvements in efficiency and effectiveness. Here are three practical tips for leaders to make a small change that can have a big impact:

Start with Small Changes: Identify one routine task or habit you perform daily and challenge yourself to adjust it by just a small margin. Whether it’s reorganizing your agenda or setting aside five extra minutes for reflection, these tiny tweaks can gradually build into a more efficient and fulfilling workday.

Look for Ways to Briefly Touch Base: Just as toasting transforms a classic PB&J into something special, a little extra effort in how you communicate can make a significant difference. Consider incorporating a brief daily check-in or sharing a short note of appreciation with your team. These small gestures not only reinforce positive behavior but also build trust and rapport.

Change Things Up Around Your Workspace: Look for minor changes in your office or home workspace or routine that can help boost your focus and productivity. It might be as simple as decluttering your desk, adjusting the lighting, or scheduling a few moments of quiet time during the day. These subtle changes can create a more conducive atmosphere for clear thinking and effective leadership.

Remember, it’s often small changes that can make a big difference.