Am I Treating Others As I Would Have Them Treat Me?
Are you?
When a person walks into a room, do you pre-judge that person based on whether the person is male or female, short or tall, black or white? Do their clothes influence your perception towards them?
We all pre-judge to a certain degree.
Research studies indicate that when a new person first walks into a room, we make judgments about this person within the FIRST 7.2 seconds.
Do you hear what I’m saying? 7.2 seconds! And we’ve already formed an impression about this person. It happens that quickly.
So yes, you and I both pre-judge. And although we pre-judge, the empowering fact is that we still have control of how we will treat each person with whom we encounter.
Do you treat others as you want to be treated?
I ask this question because sometimes I see people curse at other drivers as they speed by in their car still yelling. And let’s not forget the person who “talks down” to the attendant at the grocery store or at the gas station. Or even the family members who embarrass one another in public.
Have you ever witnessed this? Why does it happen so often?
I believe one reason is because some people are not totally happy and content with their own life and so they live each day as a time bomb with a short fuse just waiting to explode. One insight that has helped me to have more compassion for people is: “People are doing the best with what they know how and if people knew better, they would do better.”
When I encounter a “negative” person, I do not take it personal because it’s really not about me. Rather, it’s their own “stuff.” And by maintaining my composure and speaking with respect, I am able to diffuse their “negativity” and make the situation better.
So your Opportunity Exercise is: Each day, for the next seven (7) days, you will be conscious of your first impression of people and treat everyone with respect. And when someone is being “negative,” you will become conscious of your response and maintain your composure.
What is your feedback to this message?
Did anything in particular resonate with you?
Do you agree or disagree?
We welcome your feedback so go ahead and post your comment…
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