Random Acts of Kindness @Work
During the holiday season it seems many hearts soften and we experience “kinder, gentler” attitudes in our surroundings. Even in the workplace our attention is divided between what we need to do to stay on top of our projects while trying to juggle parties, children’s programs, shopping and preparations. We’re all, more or less, in the same boat and that commonality tends to bring about more collaborative attitudes. It’s nice. It feels good to work together instead of against one another. So let’s keep it up! Here are 3 tips to continue this pattern into the New Year:
1. Assume the best. Give those you work with the benefit of the doubt. Rather than attributing their behavior to a desire to sabotage you, make your job harder or sink your battleship, assume they meant no harm. We all can be myopic and thoughtless. Maybe they were simply clueless.
2. Slow down. Before you jump to conclusions, send that email or loudly object in a meeting, give it a second thought. Maybe you really don’t know everything – it’s possible others have more information than you do.
3. Collaborate. No one has to lose so you can win. We shouldn’t be in competition with those we work side by side with. Ask for input, share your ideas or questions, don’t be afraid to ask for help and guidance. It’s much easier when you’re not trying to save the world all by yourself. (Not to mention the world will be a safer place!)
Three simple tips – few enough to write on the palm of your hand to help you remember. Assume the best, slow down and collaborate. I think we might be on to something here….
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Work Year to all!


![MP900387426[1]](http://www.thevargasgroup.net/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/MP90038742612-150x150.jpg)
