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“After all is said and done, you have stories that others tell about you.  Is yours a horror story or a legacy?”  Doug Nielsen
October 2008 transparent

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Working With You

By Doug Nielsen

What are you like to work with? 
What are you like to live with?

How would your co-workers/employees/family members describe your personality? 

Before I had an opportunity to say word one, Joe (middle aged, black haired, olive complexioned, a pot gut breaking through his shirt, and tossing pizza in the air) stopped singing and enthusiastically made eye contact with me.  With a big smile he asked if I was interested in hearing the daily specials?”  “Sure,” I said. 

“I’ll have the lasagna special,” I replied.  “Great choice!” Joe said.  “I just made some especially for you and here is a little extra sauce.”  

You might expect this at an upscale restaurant, but this was at the Nashville airport.  As he handed me my food he said, “I hope you enjoy it, let me know what you think!”

Somewhat shocked by our exchange, (I am not used to being treated like a human at most fast food establishments in the airports.) I smiled, thanked him, and went to pay for my food. 

I asked the man at the register, “Is Joe always this happy?”  He answered, “He sure is and do you have any idea why?”  “No,” I replied. 

“It’s simple.  He gets to work with me!”  He then gave a big smile through his poorly aligned teeth. (I had difficulty not staring at him.)  Interestingly, he didn’t seem a bit self conscious. He explained, “Joe makes my job easy.  You see he’s got my back and I have his.  Sure makes things fun and believe it or not people love a good smile.”  Once again he showed his not so pearly whites. (I again tried not to stare as I bid him farewell.)  I have to admit I left with a huge smile.

It was clear that they enjoyed what they were doing and loved working together.  Why was this the case?  The conclusion I came to was simple: 

  • They decided to love their jobs despite all the hassles of working in fast food.   
  • They looked out for each, proactively anticipated each other’s needs, and served each other.

So how about you?  What are you like to work with, to live with?  Below are six categories. Which one best describes you over the past month?

  • A selfish little brat, who needs to have his/her inner-child spanked;
  • Distant, disconnected and clueless to the needs of others;
  • Pleasant, but too busy to help others;
  • Helpful when others, especially boss, will notice;
  • Willing to help when others ask; or
  • Intrinsically helpful, anticipating the needs of co-workers /family members.

Clearly, the most enjoyable person to work with and be around is number six!

THIS MONTHS INVIATION:

  • FIRST MAKE THE DECISION:  Decide to be the kind of person who energizes others verses the kind of person who selfishly takes from others!  I love being around people who give me an uplift.  Decide to be that kind of person.
  • SET A GOAL: Daily set a goal to anticipate the needs of someone personally and professionally.
  • MAKE THEIR DAY:  Daily serve others by doing something that will blow their mind with appreciation and leave you quietly filled with the exhilaration that only comes from being the kind of person you like to work with!!!

Until next time, smooth sailing even in the storms,

 

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P.S.  I would love to hear about your success.  Send your stories to melanie@dougspeaks.com

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