Think of the places you love to shop, where love to have coffee or a nice meal. What sets these places apart? Atmosphere? Product? Service? I believe that the first two make no difference if the last is below par. Great service is always desirable. It is something integral to our success both in the business world and in our personal lives as well.
If your business is floundering, think to yourself: "What am I offering the customer? What sets my business apart? How easy/difficult do we make it to buy or even return a product?". These are important questions and they help to turn our focus away from "My Business" to your customer's experience of your business. It is helpful too to consider your beliefs about your customers, about the world at large even. Do you believe that people are inherently good or are you constantly thinking that people are trying to cheat you? Whatever you believe about humanity will be your experience in business or otherwise. Treat your customers as though they have the purest of intentions and watch how quickly things will turn around.
The same can be said about our personal relationships. When you are feeling disconnected from friends and family, feeling sad and depressed, ask yourself: "What do I do for others?". Often we become so caught up in our little dramas, we fail to notice people around us dealing with *real* issues. Yes of course we all have problems, but if you can see a way to step out of your gloominess to reach out to someone else then DO IT! Being of service gives us a sense of purpose. For some it easy to give money to a cause, but giving of time or love can seem overwhelming! Your time and your love however, are what will truly help another.
When you look at the results in all facets of your life and you see something wanting, take a step back to examine where it is that you are holding back. Where are you not giving all that you can? Ask "How can I help?". Start with the giving and everything else will fall into place.
Danielle Boonstra
Great article! My mother-in-law taught me that "Love is spelled T-I-M-E". Giving your time to help others will make others feel better as well as yourself. Give it unselfishly and it's even better! God bless!
ReplyDeleteThanks faithworks boutique! That quote from your mother-in-law is so right on :) Blessings,
ReplyDeleteDanielle