Saturday, March 15, 2008

Good People!

Ah, what a relief today.  After dealing with some recent nastiness and bitterness, it was such a relief to be around some people that were giving of themselves for the betterment of others.  Always remember, we choose who we interact with and who we are around.  Waste little time with those that are bitter and negative, seek out those with positive outlooks and dispositions.

 

I am the President of a local volunteer group (local chapter of the Project Management Institute, PMI.org), and this morning we had a three hour planning meeting (we do two of these per year).  These very busy people, three of whom are looking for new jobs because of changes in their companies, took their personal time on a Saturday morning to help their colleagues.  We discussed plans for the next 12 months, had some good laughs, and discussed and made plans on how we can bring value to our membership.  I was very impressed with their selflessness and thanked them for their contributions and time.  One of the things we made sure to schedule was an appreciation dinner for the Board in October, because acknowledging their contributions and efforts is important.  Please make sure that you take the time to acknowledge those around you for their efforts. 

 

I encourage you to take the time to focus on those around you because you never know when the small details will be important.  After my meeting, which was held at a Starbucks at our local Martin’s grocery store, I had to do a little shopping.  The bagger was a young man that had a very strong accent, and asked me if I had found everything all right – and as I replied, I made sure that I saw his nametag.  While I was putting my purchases in the trunk of Blacky, he came jogging up to me in the parking lot; I had left my travel mug and portfolio at the checkout counter.  Before he even reached me, I said Thank You very much Sam.  He handed me my belongings and walked off with a big smile.  Noticing the small things, like someone’s name (which I normally am not very good at), and showing genuine appreciation, is rewarding to both the receiver and the provider. 

 

Here is hoping that you have the chance to have a positive impact on another person today, and every day.  :o)

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

There are times when something as simple as a kind word or a smile can brighten someone's day. There are several security guards at the lab who make me smile every morning. They wave, smile, joke around with me a little bit, and they're just generally nice people. I walk into the building with a smile, and that's not a bad way to start the day.

Beth

Anonymous said...

Some very good advise Ken.  Thank you for visiting my journal.  I love making new friends in J-Land and will set the alert for your blog and enjoy your warped humor (grin) in the future.  Please visit again.
Joyce

Anonymous said...

its nice to know that some people still revel in the act of doing the right thing because it is the right thing to do.



visit the rant anytime.

Anonymous said...

What a beautiful entry.  Yes, the little things do matter.

Krissy
http://journals.aol.com/fisherkristina/SometimesIThink