The Kindness of Strangers
In early January, in an effort to regain my health routine (that had lapsed a bit during the holidays – I’m sure that didn’t happen to you?!), I went out for a run. I wasn’t in the mood and somewhat distracted. I enjoy running on trails, so I ran on the gravel part of a paved rails-to-trails path. Only 3 minutes into my run, I tripped on a rock and went sailing through the air, not so gracefully. As I sat on the ground checking my hands and legs a woman walking her child in a stroller, with a friendly dog, asked if I needed anything. She provided me with some water to rinse my wounds – gravel is not good for skin! Her l’il pooch wanted to help too by greeting me and licking my leg.
After I was in better condition, I continued my run. Then, I returned to my car and pulled out the First Aid Kit from the car (a fond memory of my father who believed that two things should always be in your trunk – a first aid kit and jumper cables). As I was further tending to myself a car pulled up next to me in the parking lot. Another person saw what I was doing and offered to help. What wonderful thoughtfulness and kindness came to me from strangers! I appreciated and thanked both people. I am also grateful for their concern and attention.
We are all part of many communities. In this case, it was the community of people who enjoy walking, running, and being outdoors. You are also part of work, gym, dance, organizational communities and many more. As executives, leaders, and organizational members there are many individuals who make your jobs, work, and even lives better. Do you know who they are? When have you acknowledged those people or been acknowledged by those you support? Sometimes all that it takes is looking up from the busy-ness we are focused on and seeing those around us. Take some time to notice who they are.
In Patrick Lencioni’s book “The Three Signs of a Miserable Job” one of the signs is Anonymity. As he says “People cannot be fulfilled in their work if they are not known. All human beings need to be understood and appreciated for their unique qualities by someone in a position of authority.” I’m sure that you want to be a great team member, supervisor, manager, and leader. Are the people around you strangers? Are you a stranger to them? What action can you take to show people that they are noticed and matter to you and your organization? And, how can you become less of a stranger?
I encourage you to take some time over the next couple of months to see the people around you. I’m sure when you begin to know them, your life and work, and theirs, will be enhanced and feel a whole lot better.
