Tis the season to be jolly … well for me tis the season to be jolly every season 🙂 As anyone who knows me will agree 🙂
It did get me to thinking though, now that the season of goodwill is upon us, how effectively goodwill is used in business.
I am not talking about goodwill in the accounting sense of selling a business, but about the random acts of kindness that happen as part of business life. Something out of the ordinary, from the goodness of someone’s heart; a kind word at the right time; a surprise gift, the benefit of someone’s skill and experience.
Immediately my mind conjures up an image of George Bailey surrounded by the generosity of his customers in the 1940s film “It’s a wonderful life”. Black and white it maybe but the warmth of the scene positively glows from the screen.
It really touches me that these humble people were willing to give what little they had to help someone in their time of need. There was no fiscal reward just a plethora of random acts of kindness. Make believe it may be, but I know from experience that these acts of goodwill happen daily in real (business) life.
The generosity of the human spirit never fails to touch me. Spreading happiness is something I believe in; a kind word at the checkout; a readiness to smile, focussing on the positive, and seeing the best in people, and helping others.
Helping others is not only good for those who help, it makes them feel happier too. It’s a fact. When we give to others it activates the parts of the brain that are associated with pleasure. Help others whilst eating chocolate (which releases serotonin) and you are on to a real winner!
What instances do you know where goodwill is being used authentically in business? I would love to share such stories, especially at this time of year. I am not talking about philanthropy (truly marvellous in its own right), just the sharing of ordinary, everyday occurrences. They may be unusual events that struck a chord and were unexpected that you have experienced or know of. Please do share.
It’s not about giving money. It’s about giving time, or sharing skills or knowledge. I am sure it happens very often, and goes unspoken because that’s what make these acts so special. It doesn’t have to be big, in fact it would be great to hear about the small things – all these small wonderful events that are occurring every day. It’s true .. small things do make a big difference.
Here’s three true real-life random acts of kindness in business that I think will resonate with you:
1. Staff at an established business were betrayed by a colleague, leaving the mood, and trust in human nature a little low. What should arrive from someone who cared about the people in the business … afternoon tea and cakes with some kind, inspirational words.
2. The MD of a successful company offered their years of experience and knowledge to help a growing business by suggesting relevant tips and focus to help their growth plans. All without being asked, it was done from the heart because they saw something special in the company, and wanted to help.
3. A business owner who had taken some tough knocks receives a poem from someone who cares. The poem is by Mother Teresa and is called “Anyway“ and they are encouraged to continue believing in themselves, what they do and the difference they are making.
I am blessed to know some wonderful people who truly give from their hearts. People like Helen, Mark, Jason, Peter and Gail amongst others who have surprised me with random acts of kindness this year. Thank you for making me happy and spreading happiness.
As Winston Churchill said: “We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give”
Here’s wishing you a wonderful, peaceful and happy Christmas.
Karen Lambert is an experienced strategic marketer and Managing Director at Happy Creative, a full service marketing agency based in Blackpool, Lancashire. To learn more or contact us please go to www.happy-creative.co.uk
