Thank You
I awoke this morning, reflecting on the generosity of people. As many of you that read this blog know, I started a journey last month to find a new leadership role. What this means to me is that I need to get off the sidelines and put my talents to work contributing to make the lives of employees better by creating healthier organizations. As I look back on the past month, there are a number of business leaders and friends that have been gracious enough to take the time to help find a place for my talents. So, thank you. Thank you for your time. Thank you for your advice and guidance. Thank you for believing in me. They are not helping to receive a reward. They are helping because it is part of their DNA. I cannot repay their generosity, so I commit to help society by paying it forward to others in need, at every chance I get. In thinking about my admiration for their generosity, I began to think about how much society could benefit from the “simple things.”
Simple Things
Can you think of a time when the someone from the republican or democratic party stood in front of a microphone and thanked another member of the opposing party for doing something? What about a “you’re welcome” response? The other day I was checking out at a local drugstore and I initiated a “good afternoon, how are you doing today?” Her reply was “fine, that will be $19.28.” I had empathy, because I hold the management accountable for her attitude, and my best guess is that she has not felt appreciated for the job she does for quite some time. I wandered how long it had been since she had been thanked for doing a good job? So I gave her the $19.28 and said, “thank you and I hope you have a good day.” Any wonder why less than 30% of employees believe that their management doesn’t care about them? Last night, my wife came home after work and said it made her feel happy to come home and see me. I thanked her, and said it is always nice when someone says they are happy to see you. There is research that shows the ratio for success in spousal relationships is 5 to 1, five appreciative comments for every critical comment. Based upon the divorce rate in the United States I estimate criticism is outweighing appreciation. What is your ratio? Today, I commit to the “simple things.” I will acknowledge the presence of others with a hello. I will say please and thank you. I will commit to wishing people a good day, and when I have the opportunity to be on the receiving end of a thank you, I will acknowledge their recognition with “you’re welcome, it is my pleasure to help.” My hope is that as society focuses on the “simple things,” people will begin to feel respected, and our society will benefit from a renewed sense of energy.
