This week has been a series of firsts for me. I visited China for the first time, conducted a full week of training and coaching at a remote client (another first), and endured a prolonged separation from my family (not a first, sadly, but still rare).
Amidst these experiences, I found myself signing numerous books for the first time. As I penned my name, I began crafting small messages of good luck and success for the recipients. Over time, these messages evolved into a special blessing for individuals utilizing Kanban and Lean principles in their work lives. Well, others too, but they might discover the value of my wishes through some trial and error.
A blessing is a wish for success and well-being in the future, and my Kanban blessing embodies just that—a series of hopes that, if realized, would lead you to a future filled with prosperity, serenity, and joy.
While blessings typically carry religious connotations (and I’m happy to provide one if you wish), this is simply me having a bit of fun.
Here’s my Kanban blessing:
May the path before your feet always be well visualized to inform, support, and guide you wisely.
May the work in progress be limited to a manageable number of items.
May your flow be as swift as lightning, facilitating rapid learning and continuous improvement.
In the name of Ohno, Deming, and Anderson—Kanban!
I even crafted a visual representation for your reference:
Now it’s time to bid farewell to China. Until we meet again, thank you for everything. It’s been a pure joy.