Practice Empathy

It was many years ago my grandfather taught me that the best things in life take patience and sweat equity. However, he always stressed when pushing yourself in whatever it is you are trying to achieve, always make sure to think of those around you and the impact your actions may have on them. Stop and ensure others you're with are succeeding as well. Lend a hand and help them succeed in their own goals. For when they succeed, you succeed, we all succeed. Whether that is at a task level, team level, project level, division level, or organizational level. It all serves the greater good. At its core, this was his key to success. Servant leadership and selfless service.

I firmly believe that putting others before yourself is an essential quality that should be practiced in one's daily life. It allows us to truly comprehend the feelings and emotions of others, putting ourselves in their shoes. Empathy plays a crucial role in understanding and connecting with those around us. By prioritizing the needs and well-being of others, we create a sense of unity and compassion within our communities. Offering a helping hand, lending a listening ear, or simply showing kindness can make a significant impact on someone's life. Moreover, placing others before ourselves promotes selflessness and fosters meaningful relationships that are not simply transactional in nature. It teaches us to be considerate and understanding, bringing joy and fulfillment not only to those we help but also to ourselves. Let's embrace empathy and make a positive difference in the lives of others.

This isn't something that comes overnight. We all fail at this. I've failed at this. Catching myself thinking about "well that might impact me this way, or that way." Remind yourself, "take me out and put we in." Why is this? Why do we do this? Well, there's plenty of books and other thought leadership to this, but the simplest statement is we, ourself, will never truly know what the other person feels. On a primal level, we are all wired to fend for ourselves. Jokingly, I'll say, ask yourself, do you want to be the George Costanza running out of a small fire trampling over elderly and children?

For those who may not recall the comedic genius that was Seinfeld, here is a clip for your viewing pleasure.

Until next time.

-Chris