Mary Kay’s quote says it all about running your own business. When the you-know-what hits the fan, which it most certainly will, you must be ready to pivot at any given moment in response. To do that, you need to be flexible.
Flexibility is not the ability to bend but not break, it’s a contributor and facilitator of kindness. Flexibility, as Sheryl Sandberg articulates in her concept of “leaning in,” transcends the conventional notion of mere resilience—it transforms into a dynamic force that emerges as a key contributor and facilitator of kindness in the workplace. Sandberg’s idea of “leaning in” embodies the spirit of being open to new opportunities and embracing change with an attitude of proactive engagement. In the context of fostering kindness, this flexibility translates into a willingness to understand and accommodate the diverse needs and aspirations of individuals within the organization. By leaning into the evolving landscape of challenges and possibilities, leaders and team members alike can cultivate a culture that is not only adaptable but also inherently considerate and compassionate. In this dynamic dance with change, flexibility becomes a conduit for empathy and understanding, allowing kindness to weave seamlessly into the fabric of the workplace, creating a harmonious environment where growth and compassion coexist.
In a flexible environment, where adaptability is not only encouraged but celebrated, team members naturally become attuned to each other’s needs and perspectives. This heightened awareness fosters a sense of empathy—a genuine understanding of the challenges and aspirations that each person brings to the collective effort.
As this empathetic understanding takes root, kindness effortlessly weaves itself into the fabric of the workplace. Team members are more inclined to support one another, recognizing that each person’s journey is unique, and acknowledging the value of diverse experiences. Acts of kindness become second nature, whether it’s offering assistance during a busy period, providing mentorship to a colleague, or simply expressing appreciation for a job well done.
In this harmonious environment, growth and compassion coexist synergistically. The flexibility to embrace change and adapt to evolving circumstances becomes a catalyst for personal and professional development. Team members feel empowered to take risks, knowing that their colleagues and leaders understand the inherent learning curve associated with innovation and change. This supportive atmosphere not only propels individual growth but also nurtures a collective spirit of advancement and achievement.
Ultimately, in a workplace where flexibility, empathy, and kindness are intertwined, there emerges a harmonious symphony of collaboration. The organization becomes a space where individuals thrive not only in their professional pursuits but also in their personal development. It is a place where the intrinsic connection between flexibility and kindness creates a culture that values the well-being of its members, making it a truly vibrant and fulfilling community.
If you are in business, you have probably been burned too many times to count. We have all learned from one bad experience to another that it is critical to protect ourselves. However, there is always a time and a place for flexibility. Bending to the conditions that catch you off guard is not the same as being pushed around. Of course, you will discern which conditions you should adapt to in order to sustain your business, while others will expose themselves as being dangerous. Think of Flexibility as proverbially picking and choosing your battles
When we are flexible. With others, whether it is with the staff, vendors, or clients. We send several messages of kindness at once. Through our flexible actions which show we are patient comma, humble, and aware that we are susceptible to the same kinds of interpretation. We tell others we are compassionate and empathetic to the situation. Our flexible reaction to a conundrum is the cumulative effect of all these kindness characteristics put together.
Jill Lublin is an international speaker on the topics of Publicity, Networking, Kindness and Referrals. She is the author of 4 Best Selling books including Get Noticed…Get Referrals (McGraw Hill) and co-author of Guerrilla Publicity and Networking Magic. Her latest book, Profit of Kindness went #1 in four categories. Jill is a master strategist on how to position your business for more profitability and more visibility in the marketplace. She is CEO of a strategic consulting firm and has over 25 years experience working with over 100,000 people plus national and international media. Jill teaches a virtual Publicity Bootcamp, and consults and speaks all over the world. She has spoken on many stages with luminaries such as Tony Robbins. Jill also leads an conscious kindness community.
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