Gas Station Tears

Recently I stopped to get gas. The woman behind the counter greeted me and started the usual, "anything besides gas?" transactional conversation. I smiled, said, "no, thank you", and asked her how her day was going, if she was from the area, and if she had fun plans that weekend.

Toward the end of our interaction, her eyes teared up. She shared she was having a very hard week, didn't feel like she mattered to anyone, and a few other details. She said I was the first person who had actually cared to ask her how she was doing, look her in the eyes, and genuinely listen. I assured her that she deserved to be listened to, she was cared for, and God loved her.

Now I don't know this woman, nor will I probably ever stop at that gas station again, in fact I don't even remember which gas station it was. But perhaps you will go there. Or maybe you will run into a similar situation somewhere else. Don't forget to be kind and TCO'd. You never know who you will impact.

Remember the importance of small, simple gestures. Everyone has value and deserves love, even if you will never see them twice or they seemingly have nothing to offer you. Though we may not know their entire story, may not be able to build a relationship with them, and can't solve all their problems, sometimes all they need is a smile, a compliment, and someone to actually "see" them.

Be that person.

Remember that whether you work behind the counter or own the company, whether you bag groceries or drive the sports car in which they will go, whether you take the bus or a private helicopter, you are significant; and you are loved. Don't ever forget that. And share that love with others.

This story took place earlier in the year, and I'm using it as an example for a future Life Enforcement article. I'm sharing this portion of the article to offer you encouragement, peace, and assurance. Hopefully it helped or served as an inspiration.

How does this relate to business?

In plenty of ways. We all could benefit from learning to connect more effectively.

What if you treated your clients, your co-workers, or your suppliers similarly - asking them questions and genuinely listening to the answers?
What level of connection do you have with these people on a daily basis?
Are your interactions purely transactional? Why?

Answer them honestly. If you don't like the answers - change. If you don't know where to start - shoot me a note. I'd be happy to help.

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About the Author:

Dan and his wife, Kayla, own Rosenblatt Leadership Development. RLD focuses on connecting and growing people looking to make a difference in their communities, those looking for more out of life, and those seeking financial freedom. We help individuals like you to dream bigger, take control of your life, and achieve your dreams. Our vision is to help 300 families become financially independent and actualize their dreams – to see you succeed. Our heart’s desire is to touch as many lives as possible and to live lives of significance.

You are the reason I write; I want to help you; and I’m on your team.

If you would like to read other material I’ve written on leadership, influence, and personal growth send me an invite here on LinkedIn; and please share why you're reaching out. I’d love to be connected with you. Feel free to follow us on Twitter or look us up on Instagram for daily motivation, inspiration, and content.  For more on our business, please send me a personal email HERE with your name, number, and two paragraphs sharing about yourself and why you’re reaching out.

Thank you for reading, applying, sharing, and growing!