the people's list (part two)

Welcome back, did you get dizzy by reading the big list? 

Cool, since you’re still here that means you are intrigued, just as I expected you to be.

PEOPLE (part two)

5         Ask a random person if he/she can learn you something.
Or suggest if he/she can show it you. You can even ask if you are allowed to tag along for just a brief period. Every person has a certain set of skills; things they do with a natural ease. Learn from them. You might not entirely grasp that skill, but it can be an interesting experience. So don’t mind the laughter, everybody had to start at that point. And the more you walk in other people’s shoes, the more your own world opens up.

6         Help people without giving them money (or expecting it).

Money is tricky: it (usually) requires little effort to change hands, and offers a rather impersonal solution. Instead, why not lend a hand? Perhaps your specific skill or knowledge is just the thing they need. And gratitude can go further than just some ‘paperwork’. Do keep in mind though to choose your ‘battles’ wisely. You can’t help everybody. But every once and a while a shoulder to cry on, or to know the right person, or that nugget of advice can do wonders. 

7         No matter how hardworking you are, everybody needs a break.

 This is the perfect opportunity to sit next to a co-worker you haven’t talked to in a while. Ask if you’re not interrupting and start talking/listening. Sometimes you’ll be amazed how much you have in common with someone without knowing it. Why? Because usually we only talk about work or things we’ve seen on the news. Pick another subject. But remember that the workplace is a strange environment: be wary about gossip.

8         Never think about how you look, or how others might see you.

This is just your perception and imagination talking. The truth is that you can never tell how people really think about you. Besides, your image is subjected to change anyway: internally and externally. So why cram yourself into a pose that might as well do the opposite as you intended? You look best when your apparel and behavior comes naturally. Of course if you are a couch potato like me, well, then it might be best to start living more healthy. And yes, I know: the ‘real you’ might scare off a crowd. But it will as well attract the people you feel most comfortable with. Think about who you are and what you have already accomplished. Be proud.

9         Enjoy, smile, reach out and be reached. LOOK!
Mind the details and use them to make conversations go smooth. In the beginning it will be hard, but after a while, things will feel more natural.  And there always are places, people, or mindsets where you can connect more easily, start there and expand your territory.

Hey, you made it through the list. There’s one more coming up, but I’ll publish that one within a few days. Because life isn’t all about following guidelines and lists. Although they might offer something to hold on to. If however, these things come natural for you, by all means, find your own way. It’s usually more fun to do these discoveries first hand.