The success of a team doesn’t always depend on big budgets or long-term plans. Sometimes, it’s enough with a shift in perspective as simple as the “dishwasher rule”. What? Yes. This principle, born from everyday life, teaches that there are multiple paths to reach the same result and that, by recognizing that diversity, the true potential of emotional intelligence is unlocked! Understanding it not only improves internal communication but also boosts productivity, strengthens trust, and cultivates a work climate in which everyone wants to take part. Are you ready to learn about it?
From the sink to the boardroom
The “dishwasher rule” reminds us that each person has different methods and rhythms. Imposing a single way of working creates constant friction; accepting plurality, on the other hand, fosters innovation and commitment.
Emotional intelligence means detecting those differences and managing them with empathy so that the whole organization moves in the same direction, even if each member loads the dishes in their own way
The emotional root of rigidity
Behind the resistance to alternative methods hide personality traits: need for control, fear of failure or deep-rooted beliefs about “the right way” to act. When the leader masters their own urge to correct (the famous “do it like I do”) and creates space for new solutions, they send a powerful message: “I trust your judgment”. That small concession reinforces autonomy, one of the strongest intrinsic motivators at work.
Benefits of openness
- Reduces micromanagement and frees up leadership time for strategic tasks.
- Decreases conflicts over trivial details, boosting team morale.
- Stimulates creativity, the foundation of continuous improvement.
The “dishwasher rule” is not about clean plates!! But about people being heard, sounds good, right?
Applying the rule step by step
First, identify processes where accuracy is not critical. There you can allow variations without compromising quality or safety. Communicate the goal (clean dishes) and choose clear outcome metrics, not method metrics. Then, practice observation: when a different approach arises, resist the urge to correct and ask what advantages the other person sees. This dialogue opens the door to improvements you might never have considered.
Turning theory into tangible culture
For the rule to take root, share it openly in meetings and internal manuals. Publicly acknowledge those who propose successful alternatives; positive reinforcement consolidates collective habits. If an error appears, analyse the cause without blaming: emotional intelligence requires separating the person from the problem and seeing the mistake as learning.
The trap of false flexibility
Beware of confusing openness with lack of direction. A common framework is essential: values, deadlines, and minimum standards protect coherence. The key lies in guiding the what and the when, leaving freedom for the how whenever possible.
Results that speak for themselves
Companies that embrace this principle report decreases in turnover and increases in job satisfaction. In high-pressure environments, mutual trust becomes a competitive advantage: flexible teams react better to market changes because they don’t depend on a single working style. And on the personal side, leaders who apply the “dishwasher rule” gain a reputation for fairness and closeness, qualities that attract talent and strengthen the employer brand.
Beyond the office
Implementing the rule also transforms the personal sphere. Family or friendship relationships improve when it is accepted that there are multiple valid ways to organize, cook, or drive. The virtuous circle is clear: the more tolerance is practiced at home, the more it flows at work, and vice versa.
The 24-hour challenge
For a full day, observe your reactions when someone does something “their way”. Instead of correcting, ask an open question: “Why do you do it that way?” This simple exercise will expand your perspective and train your emotional intelligence in a practical and continuous way.
The “dishwasher rule” proves that the greatness of modern leadership starts with tiny gestures. Recognizing alternative paths to reach the goal not only eliminates unnecessary tensions; it positions any organization, and its leaders, in the fertile ground of creativity and resilience. Adopt this approach today and see how emotional intelligence becomes your ultimate advantage!