Always do your best……don’t be a fair weather friend. If you are only a friend when you need a friend, then you have not committed to anyone but yourself. No matter how busy your life is, you have to make time for all those around you, to whom you make a difference. We must make time for the people that matter today, because tomorrow is never promised. We need to nurture our loved ones, show gratitude for our friendships, and give our undivided attention by being present when they are in our company. To have quality relationships you have to invest in them. You have to make deposits in those friendships….and ensure that you are giving of yourself, not just taking.
There is a right way to treat people and a wrong way. At the centre of great relationships are the values of honour, dignity and respect. That means taking your responsibilities seriously. Being there for your children and parents, staying connected to your siblings, and honouring your friendships with love. As we go through life we have to interact with other people. We are continually rubbing up against them emotionally and so we owe it to ourselves and to those around us to be thoughtful and consciously compassionate, rather than taking them for granted. By being attentive and committed to world class relationships…..we are able to spread some warmth and happiness as we shine our light on our world.
Robin Sharma said “The quality of your life comes down to the quality of your relationships. With yourself, your loved ones, your friends, and your associates. Commit to insanely great relationships and you’ll have an insanely great life. So be the first to say hello. Smile a lot. Use people’s names. Look people in the eye when you speak to them. Become a world class listener. Listening and asking questions shows humility. Offer sincere compliments. Treat everyone like royalty, and I do mean everyone, it scares me when someone is nice to me but rude to a waiter. These principles are profoundly simple and yet simply profound… and isn’t that the case for all great truths?”
By Lisa Scott Executive Coach