2017 -The right way to add value…

It is interesting how we get pulled into things when we don’t even want it. I have found myself in those situations quite often in the past, but no more. I have made the decision to deflect and choose how I want. It is a pet peeve for me when “adding value” is taken out of the equation. This might not come off as a typical pet peeve, but when I explain you will agree that it should be up there on the top of everyone’s list – the sales pitch that says I am here to sell you. The experience:

You are approached by someone who thinks they have the best service or product in the world to share. They begin to explain that they know what you want and why. You are provided the pitch and before you know it, you feel trapped. How many times have you been told, “It’s what you’ve been waiting for.”? As you listen, deep down you begin to cringe because you know what you want to say. “How pathetic! I never even wanted to talk with you. Who are you to tell me what I want? Are you a psychic?” However, you remain polite and suffer through the ordeal looking for the ideal escape.

I know some of you may not have said it so nicely in your mind, but I think you get the point. My mother taught me early in life to show respect to others. Therefore, even when there is an intrusion of my space, I have learned how to express appreciation. However, in those situations, one might wonder why we are not asked what needs we may have. Somehow, I believe that might have yielded some results. Unfortunately, we get into the situation where the sale is more important than adding value to the experience.

Today, I would like for us to think about adding value to others in every encounter. We can do this by changing our approach to the way we connect with people. Albert Einstein was right when he said, and I quote, “Strive not to be a success, but rather to be of value.” Those are powerful words and they help to create the bigger picture in life. Are we acting to add value? Are we adding value to our friendships, family, community and workplace? Most often this is not the case. We think about our needs more than caring about others. If nothing else happens today, never enter another conversation or relationship thinking with the “I want mindset” or “what’s in it for me?” Rather, take the approach of how can I serve you. Everyone one has a need until they are asked. To get the best response we should approach with questions that show concern. Show you care and want to give all the time necessary. Be genuine.

When I speak about adding value, I want us to introspectively think how we can transform a person’s mourning into laughter. Think about what this would mean to the person to have someone who cares. The No. 1 Leadership Guru per Inc. Magazine puts it this way:

“To add value to others, one must first value others” ~ John Maxwell.  Wow! That is just profound – we must value people before we can take the next step of bringing value.

Unlike our experience with a person who wants to sell us something without concern for what we need, there is so much that you and I can do to help shape the world around us. We can begin by adding value. Today, I want you to join me in doing the following as we start a mission of adding value to everyone we meet:

1. Stop talking and listen! What does the other person want to share? Take the time to “lean in”.
2. Remove all assumptions. You are there not for what you know, but for what you can give. Not because you think you have it all figured out everyone should too.
3. Anticipate the uncertainty. Do what it takes to break down the barriers that would cause a disconnect. Be understanding.

It is up to us to create the space we want by pouring into the life of others. The change will be astounding! Add value to someone today.

And just as you want men to do to you, you also do to them likewise. Luke 6:31

#Keep Doing your Best Work!

RHOY