Getting Along

Our ability to relate and get along with others is a key skill for life. How we treat and interact with one another has a profound impact on our ability to function effectively in life. Take more than a superficial look to discover the special gift in each person you meet and always try to MSFI -Make Someone Feel Important.

Respect is the cornerstone of The Ethic of Getting Along Never ask others to do what you would not do. Take time to listen. Keep your promises, large or small. Respect the ideas of others. Give credit where credit is due. Be willing to get your hands dirty. Help newcomers adjust—at work or in the neighborhood. Go out of your way to help others deal with difficulties. Treat everyone with dignity and courtesy.

Respect for others is also the foundation of the rules of etiquette—norms for acceptable behavior that we should follow in more formal social settings.

Success in building relationships means that you will have a wide circle of acquaintances with whom to network—reaching out to individuals to share information of benefit to both, as well as offering support to one another. Networking can happen anywhere.

Mentoring—sharing your knowledge and insights with others to foster their personal growth, enrich their life, or help with their careers—is another key element of getting along.