One small act of kindness

Sometimes, the smallest act of kindness goes beyond being a nice guy.

The subway was slow. Normally the ride takes no more than 20 minutes, but this day it took twice the time. People were not happy. In spite of this, as the train car became more crowded, a guy who was sitting next to me got up and offered his seat to a woman.

Now, you might think this woman was pregnant or drop-dead gorgeous. She didn't look preggers, nor was she the type to appear in fashion magazines. She was simply a woman who got on the train.

This guy didn't hesitate.

I had been sitting next to him for at least 10 minutes. Except for a sigh of exasperation due to the slowness of the subway, he sat inconspicuously and I didn't pay attention to him. But the moment he got up and offered his seat, he came into focus. And it wasn't just me that noticed. Across the way, another guy saw. And like that Liberty Mutual commercial about paying it forward, he also moved to let someone else have a seat.

I also noticed that this guy wasn't bad looking either. Wow, a decent-looking guy who's considerate of strangers? If I were still single, I would have worn the look of having been charmed.

It didn't have to be an average woman that he offered his seat, but on the New York City subway, it doesn't happen often. A pregnant woman, an old person, or an injured person, it's expected. (Though most people sitting on the subway are too selfishly indrawn to notice even those people.) Maybe the guy saw how tired she looked, or maybe he's just a real gentleman with a mama who taught him well.

Whatever the motivation, the action proves that one small alpha decision can impact the surrounding world.

Tips for Career Success

A short article for those struggling for work in this economy.

The interview process is half the battle in achieving employment. The other half is keeping a good job.
Here are three tips for success:

1. Take initiative

   On the job, you might see something that needs help or improvement. Rather than expect someone else to fix it, do it yourself. It might be as simple as replacing the empty jug on the water cooler, or it might be something with greater impact, like introducing an idea to make workflow more efficient. Some initiatives can be done with autonomy. Others, such as a good idea, might be better off discussed with people you can confide in, such as your boss or colleagues.

2. Keep an open mind

Consider other people’s perspectives, and don’t expect others to understand what or how you think. There are many different kinds of personalities, and many different ways of seeing situations. Some people like to focus on small details and others like to see the big picture. Differences in perspective are often the basis for arguments, which can be real time-wasters. Take time to listen and think carefully so that you can work cooperatively.

3. Be proactive

Often following initiative, proactivity is productivity. Don’t wait around for direction, and don’t wait for accolades or credit, even for that great idea you proposed. Focus on being productive. Everything you do, even if it’s working for someone else’s company, is really for yourself. It’s your experience and your career that you’re building. Don’t wait for someone to tell you what to do. Figure out what needs to be done, take initiative and do it. If your proactivity doesn’t fly with the boss, figure out what you can do to maintain productivity.

Losing a job can come with bad feelings, but such a situation could actually be an opportunity. Think about what you can improve: your skills, your work ethic, or personality compatibility. (Sometimes we have to adjust our behavior to get along with others.) Don’t spend too much time worrying about the past. Rather, take what you’ve learned and use that knowledge at your next job. It’s better to admit your mistakes—which everyone makes—than try to hide them.