Why Considerate People Flourish and How They Do It
By Sandy Schroeder
When the morning is still roaring ahead, and there have been multiple mishaps already, being considerate may be the last thing on your mind. The stress of a relentless pace may simply push consideration aside, but there may be a better answer.
Consideration may be the missing element that makes everything work better, according to Dr. Travis Bradberry, co-founder of Talentsmart, a service agency that services 75 percent of the Fortune 500 companies
Bradberry says consideration will improve your career and your health. When we reach out to help others, our brain is flooded with feel-good chemicals like dopamine and oxytocin, like a “runner’s high," that benefits the heart, too.
So How Do We Do It?
Bradberry suggests starting with these habits.
Always be on time – A few minutes late may not seem like much, but it sends the message that you value your time more than others. Set your alarm 15-minutes early and make it a rule to be on time for every meeting.
Lend a hand - As you look around and see people who need help, let them know you are concerned, and then do something about it. Start by talking with them and listening to their problems, and then do what you can to help. When you help others, they will remember, and be there when you need help, too.
Say you are sorry – Don’t routinely apologize for everything that happens, but do speak up if you have made a mistake to let the other person know you are sorry and to acknowledge the error. That’s consideration that everyone appreciates.
Find your smile - When you smile you are apt to get one back. Making the first move to be positive with a smile can set the whole tone for a conversation. If you start with a frown you are automatically laying the groundwork for a negative response.
Make others comfortable – Being considerate is all about putting someone at ease, and when you do that you both win. You create level ground for a good conversation with honest interaction. A fellow that I worked with for quite a few years was a master at this. He always started with the other person’s view, finding out what the problem was, and how he could help. He made lots of friends, and lots of progress, simply by reaching out.
Help everybody win – As you learn more about emotional intelligence, you will find it easier to see how others feel, and to respond with the best answers. Learning how to read other people and use that information to help everyone move ahead may become your most unbeatable asset.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Atlanta, Ga.