Andon – “Pull the Cord.”

Whenever you find yourself on the side of the majority, it is time to reform (or pause and reflect).” Mark Twain

Andon is a Japanese manufacturing term referring to a system to notify management, maintenance, and other workers of a quality or process problem.

It is a quality control system pioneered by Toyota. I heard about this term in Charles Duhigg’s newest book – Faster, Smarter, Better.

It is a process that allows any worker at any time to press a button or use the pull cord to activate an alert that something is wrong. It was a means to improve productivity.

When a worker was having trouble, rather than trying to save pride and deal with the issue himself, that might take time and hold up the process line, he could pull the cord for assistance. This helped improve productivity.

I think there is an important lesson as it relates to life. We often get so caught up in the business of life that we don’t pause to reflect and reassess. We also go about dealing with our troubles without the courage to ask for help.

If when we faced uncertainty, if when life was getting us down, when we experience too many moments or days that are dissatisfying that we just pulled that cord, paused and used that time to reflect and assess things that we might be able to find information and clarity that would allow us to make better decisions. Being more efficient with our lives and creating greater purpose and meaning.

What do you think?

Further Reading and Resources 

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American Psychological Association: The largest scientific and professional organization of psychologists in the United State

The Art of Manliness: Encouraging men to be better husbands, fathers, brothers, citizens.

Tiny Buddha: Simple wisdom for complex lives.

Brain Pickings: An inventory of cross-disciplinary interestingness, spanning art, science, design, history, philosophy, and more.

Mind Body Green: Lifestyle media brand dedicated to inspiring you to live your best life.

Zen Habits: Find simplicity and mindfulness in life.

Creative NonFiction: “true stories well told.” 

Addicted 2 Success: Motivation & Inspiration Website full of quotes and inspiring articles for entrepreneurs.

Barking Up the Wrong Tree: science-based answers and expert insight on how to be awesome at life.

The Positivity Blog: Practical articles on happiness, self-esteem, productivity and social skills.

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