As mentioned in previous newsletters, I’m revisiting my well-received post from January 2012 entitled: Resol-ationships and expanding on Point #3 here:
3. Help someone out in an unexpected way-for the sheer act of kindness that it is. If an exam room needs to be turned over, do it. If the copier isn’t working properly, try to see what you can do to troubleshoot. Don’t leave it for the next person to discover. Lend a hand; offer assistance. Take initiative-even something as simple as replacing the paper towels in the employee washroom helps someone!
Determine that “It’s not my job” is no longer part of your vocabulary. It’s actually the little things that mean a lot. These acts of generosity can lead to greater fulfillment by creating stronger bonds with others.
Consider how you feel when someone does something unexpected for you…or offers a kind word when you least expect it. Sometimes the smallest of gestures can lift another person up and be just the “right medicine” needed in a particular moment. And you may not even realize it…
A surprise action reaches out to another’s heart…it tells someone “I see you and I want to help, I care.” This does not imply a major time commitment, money needed or scheduling requirements. I’m simply talking of giving of yourself when someone hasn’t even asked for assistance. You may see them juggling several things at once, maybe struggling with an issue that is taking them longer than expected, running late…whatever the case may be. Stepping up to the plate and asking what specifically you can do that will help them in the moment or taking the initiative to “just do it” may give you the biggest present of all. Feeling good about yourself for pitching in and going above and beyond, for no other reason than to help someone.
I’ve been lucky to witness time after time, the gratitude, appreciation and yes, even warmth that transcends between co-workers, between family members or friends when someone steps forward to take the lead.
I encourage you to take 2 minutes right now and think about a time someone did an unexpected kindness for you (whether professionally or personally) and what the impact was in that moment? I’m pretty confident it conjures up some good feelings….and I also “bet” it brought great satisfaction to the giver, as well.
In the next 24 hours, try it…and I’d love for you to comment below and share how it went. We all learn from each other and role modeling is a very powerful tool.
Now, go look for opportunities and make someone feel seen and appreciated –and watch what happens inside you, too!
