Today at lunch I ran some errands…
First stop – Verizon – cellular service on my iPad was not working.
I walked in, was greeted by a friendly rep, and was immediately helped to a new SIM card. In the process, we discovered a smushed, petrified fly adhered to the inner cover of the iPad. He ran to get me a paper towel and wet wipe and I scraped the carcass off as we all laughed.
Second stop – Best Buy – I needed to return a few smart plugs that I incorrectly ordered.
I walked in and was greeted by a smiling man who eagerly directed me to the customer service line. I waited and then was greeted by another smiling young man who helped me. I was 2 days past the return window (who knew there was such a short return window?). He explained and then said that since it was so close he was going to refund me anyway. He needed approval and radio’d for help. After a minute, he radio’d again, informed me his supervisor was coming from the warehouse and would be right there. Supervisor arrives, hits a few keys on the register, and the clerk said “thanks man, you’re the best”. He then informed me my receipt was emailed and I was all set. I thanked him profusely, turned to leave and was then told by the greeter to have a great day. I reciprocated.
Third Stop – Starbucks (after all, how could I possibly return to work without a coffee?).
I went through the drive through, ordered, and then was handed my coffee by a bright, beautiful, smiling young woman who lit up when I thanked her and told her to have a fantastic day.
As I drove back to the animal hospital where I am working today, I reflected upon my morning of friendly coworkers and equally lovely clients. And then it hit me…..
PEOPLE WANT TO BE HAPPY. PEOPLE WANT TO BE NICE.
PEOPLE WANT TO BE APPRECIATED.
It’s that simple. There is a common belief these days that people are grumpy and nasty and that people suck. Yes, there are “those” out there. But mostly, people just want to do their job, live their lives, enjoy their day and be happy.
The Law of Attraction dictates that the energy we put out there is what comes back. In other words, how we show up is how others will show up. We experience what we expect to experience.
If you walk in with an expectation that others will be cranky, then they will be. If you allow their crankiness to get you cranky, then you will find more crankiness.
Turn ”being nice” into a game
…because you choose to, not because you expect anything in return.
How to play the “Game of Nice”:
Make the decision that you will intentionally be nice – everywhere.
Expect pleasant behavior from others (even if you have reason not to).
Allow cranky behavior from others to float on by – don’t internalize it. Just observe it and respond appropriately in the moment. When the moment is gone, let it go.
Notice what happens. Notice people’s smiles, gestures, and reactions to your demeanor.
I would LOVE to hear what opens up for you with this. Email me and let me know how your game goes. What do you notice? How are your received? How much nice is there that you never paid attention to before?
In the face of all that’s going on in the world, there is light coming. People want a shift and they are starting to shift.
Recognize it. Allow it. Be it.
It’s what the world needs and it starts with you.
