Yesterday, I’m moving down the highway, and bam! A vibrant billboard featuring Dolly Parton catches my eye. Her infectious smile is beaming, and right next to her is a message that hits home: “Find the good in everybody, KINDNESS, pass it on” – Dolly Parton.
Now, I know, easier said than done—especially in the hustle of business, right? Yet, my business colleagues are proving it’s not just a pipe dream. In the midst of navigating the complex business, environmental, and human challenges, my colleagues, clients, and vendors are showing some serious empathy, understanding, sympathy, compassion, and responsiveness. Translation? They’re being kind:
- Meet Clay, aka Mr. Connection. He kicks off meetings with Dad jokes that are so bad, they’re good. Not only does it break the ice, but it’s a reminder for me to step up my personal connection game.
- Melissa? She’s the rainmaker. Literally. We met on a rainy day, and she pumped the brakes on business talk until we’d spilled all our personal tea. Real connections first!
- Flashback to the time my grocer handed me a bouquet after I broke my shoulder. That unexpected act of kindness still warms my heart.
And then there’s my business idol, Dolly Parton—singer, songwriter, business tycoon (The Dollywood Company), actor, and all-around philanthropist. Dolly’s got fans from every corner, and she’s not afraid to have a laugh, even if it means poking fun. Her brand? Human Kindness, among other awesome things.
So, here’s my game plan: sprinkle kindness like confetti in my business and at home. Kindness is more than a buzzword—it’s my signature move. And guess what. It’s paying off. Kindness is my brand, and the feedback? Positive.
Now, spill the tea. Where are you dishing out or soaking in kindness in your business? I’m listening carefully and ready to spread the good vibes. Let’s share the stories!
Chuck Scharenberg is the Founder of More Profit More Freedom, a consultancy that successfully guides new C-suite individuals in growing companies by building robust infrastructures and engaged teams to scale their businesses.