Why You Should “Meet People Where They Are”
A short lesson in dealing with people in a positive manner
We are all working towards our own version of happiness. We each have a vision that we want to fulfill in life.
But each of us is in our own world. We see from our point of view. We have our own list of goals and challenges.
This is perfectly human.
To act differently would almost feel unnatural. But it is in this act, of thinking and living in terms of other people, that you will find much fulfillment and success in your life.
This post is about living selflessly and “meeting people where they are”.
My aunt shared this advice with me and it changed my perspective for the better. I would like to share it with you.
Sometimes we just need a little encouragement or someone to listen with open ears.
“You never know when a moment and a few sincere words can have an impact on a life. “— Zig Ziglar
You can change a person’s life by finding ways to nurture and support them. We are all in different places mentally, emotionally, professionally and the list continues.
Your ability to use emotional intelligence and be empathetic to what someone is going through is POWERFUL. If you are creative and a problem-solver then use your skills to elevate others.
Life is filled with endless opportunities for those who actually care about other people.
Know that giving your precious time and energy to support others is typically the grounds for great relationships. Rapport and trust are built from people feeling that you are on their same wavelength and that you have their best interests at heart. They can truly FEEL that you are selfless.
It is so refreshing to meet someone like this. They are sincere. They are caring. And they have a big heart which makes you want to support them as best as you can.
Here is one of my favorite quotes from How to Win Friends and Influence People that speaks on a similar note:
“The world is full of people who are grabbing and self-seeking. So the rare individual who unselfishly tries to serve others has an enormous advantage.” — Dale Carnegie
Use your skills to boost others on their path to creating the life of their vision. And do these things:
- Give people a reason to smile (tell them they are truly amazing or share a joke that gets them grinning)
- Be a great listener (be an active listener… listen to understand rather than immediately reply with your perspective)
- Fill the gaps (identify what people need help with and what roadblocks they are experiencing on their path to success and help them solve their problems)
“Meeting people where they are” requires patience. It requires keeping your cool and not condemning people:
“Instead of condemning people, let’s try to understand them. Let’s try to figure out why they do what they do. That’s a lot more profitable and intriguing than criticism; and it breeds sympathy, tolerance, and kindness.”— Dale Carnegie
Help wherever you can. Be an uplifting spirit for those you encounter.
Everyone may not reciprocate this energy but if you keep “meeting people where they are” eventually you will run into some fantastic human beings. These will be true friends who will support you through the ups and downs of life.
I use this advice for both personal and business endeavors.
It is common practice in business to not do anything for free. But from my experience, “meeting people where they are” may sometimes require you to do free work or give the extra effort beyond what you are currently getting paid for. This quote from Zig Ziglar sums up this idea with brevity:
“Do more than you are being paid to do, and you’ll eventually be paid more for what you do.” — Zig Ziglar
It’s the eventually part that is the kicker. The bills come monthly and we cannot tell our creditors that we will pay them eventually or they will start cutting utilities off.
The best way I can address this reality is to SERVE as much as I can. And I am working on systems such as an email newsletter and coaching program, which will allow me to serve many more people.
I am connected with several ambitious entrepreneurs, and together we form MASTERMINDS. We team up to combine our resources and efforts to serve more people.
I have found that not all of my free projects turn into paid projects but they do help in laying the foundation for great friendships. These people know of my character and the quality of the work I deliver so it’s just a matter of following up with them in the future. Maybe they will eventually turn into a paid client.
I do not depend on them much though. I just keep serving. I just keep making a positive impact on those I encounter… knowing my attention to service will bring all the paid projects and opportunities I could ever want.
When people realize that you are genuinely interested in helping them succeed, they will open up to you. They will want to stay connected with you. And they will find ways to support you.
Some people may use you. Some people may not reciprocate the service you have given to them.
This is life. Keep going!
The more people you help in a constructive manner, the more great people you will be introduced to. It takes patience and persistence to make this grand impact. You CAN do it.
That is the message for today. We all need encouragement every now and then so why not be the one sharing words of motivation with your circle?
Do not be quick to judge but rather see things from the other person’s view. When you can help, do so.
Do not think about your return but rather how much service you are providing to the world. Income follows impact anyway.
Thanks for reading. Please let me know what do you think with a Response!
