Yesterday, I met with one of our residential managers to talk about the importance of clear communication—especially when it comes to assigning responsibilities.
I shared a story I once heard about a couple who bought a plant together. Both loved it, but over time the plant died—not because either person didn’t care, but because neither took ownership. One assumed the other would water it, and sometimes both watered it too much. The result? The plant didn’t stand a chance.
The lesson is simple: when everyone is responsible, no one really is.
After our conversation, I stopped by today to see how things were going. To my surprise, the entire facility was running smoothly. Every team member had a specific task, and the manager herself had time to focus on other priorities. The difference was clear—clarity brings order.
The takeaway: always make sure tasks are clearly assigned, expectations are known, and accountability is understood. As my friend likes to say, “Assumption is the mother of all F**kups.”
Dr. Anthony Ndungu is the CEO of Meadowlark Care Homes, Home Health and Hospice of Kansas, and Medicashift.
- Meadowlark Care Homes provides comfortable, home-style living and compassionate care for seniors.
- Home Health and Hospice of Kansas offers skilled nursing, therapy, and hospice services that help patients recover or live comfortably at home.
- Medicashift connects healthcare facilities with qualified nurses and caregivers through flexible staffing solutions.
Dr. Anthony Ndungu, RN, Ph.D.
CEO – Meadowlark Care Homes | Home Health & Hospice of Kansas | Medicashift
Leadership | Healthcare | Compassion
