This is the time of year where we all begin to feel almost
guilted in making New Year’s Resolutions. Recently I read an article by Lolly
Daskal (@lollydaskal)which outlined 10 things likable people do constantly. As
I read them, it occurred to me that these are qualities, not only in likable
people but attributes found in great leaders as well. Perhaps you can draw a
resolution or two from the following:
1. Listen without interrupting.
Become a great
listener. That means no butting in, no rushing along, no asking
questions until the speaker is done. Listen not to frame your own rebuttal but
rather to genuinely understand. First seek to understand…
2. Smile without smirking.
Smiling and warmth make others around you feel good. It
seems simplistic, but smiling is a lost skill of sorts. Master it and you'll
stand out. Take some time…LOOK at yourself…literally in the mirror…practice
“the smile”
3. Speak without dictating.
Speak and share your thoughts and ideas, but treat such
conversations as a two-way street. Your voice and your wisdom
have value, but set them forth in a way that respects the voice and wisdom of
others in true dialogue. VALUE the person with whom you are speaking.
4. Give without receiving.
As the adage says, we make a living by what we get but we
make a life by what we give. Don't keep score; give with a genuine heart,
because it makes you happy…servant leadership.
5. Enjoy without complaining.
Enjoy and be grateful for all that you have. It is gratitude
that gives us the best reasons not to complain. A mindset of gratitude versus
the greed of want pays dividends for the entire organization.
6. Trust without wavering.
Trust, someone once said, is like an eraser--it gets smaller
and smaller every time you have to use it. When we can offer others our sincere
word and they know they can trust us, that's no small thing. Consistently doing
what you've said you would do, and not doing what you've said you won't do,
earns you a huge amount of trust.
7. Promise without forgetting.
People with good intentions make promises; people with great
character keep them. Keeping promises should be your highest priority--because
when you give your word, there is no room to forget. Keep your promises.
8. Forgive without punishing.
I believe there are two kinds of forgiveness: the kind that
also gives the other person a chance, and the kind that forgives but still
compels you to move on without that person. Either should be used wisely, and
neither should be about punishment. The healthy way to forgive is whatever
works best for you without punishing the other person.
9. Be honest without deceiving.
The people we like the best are those who are honest, who
follow their convictions and speak their truth. We like people who act on their
beliefs. They may not always win, but you know what they stand for.
10. Be positive without reservation.
Negative, angry people drag down everyone around them. Work
on maintaining a positive attitude at work and in life. Make an effort to look
for opportunities and solutions instead of barriers and problems. Whatever the
situation, focus on what can be done.
So my friends, are there any that resonate with you? Care to
add to the list? Feel free…Happy New Year…
Be good to yourself…Happy New Year!
