Thriving in Your Great Work-Life—Part Three

A business coaching client—a bright, dedicated and talented manager—complained that her office felt very chaotic right now. She said that business was picking up again, which was a welcome sign, but the staff was reacting negatively.

My client reported that employees were being snippy with each other, avoiding unpleasant tasks, listening poorly, interrupting others and making snide remarks—behaviors generally perceived to be an indication of disrespect. They may not have been intended as such, but it feels that way to the person on the receiving end of such behavior.

The first step toward creating an environment of mutual respect is to give the respect you want to receive. It doesn’t work to demand to be treated with respect before you show your willingness to act respectfully. Those who do, only generate greater disrespect and ill will.

You can measure how much respect you’re giving by the amount you’re receiving. With few exceptions, the more you give, the more you’ll get.

For good measure, give twice as much respect as you expect! Make it your daily goal to treat others with the respect you want to receive.