Speak clearly and honestly
No need for ambiguities and flattering. Honesty is the best policy. “You’re judicious, but when you do talk, your intention is twofold: You’re not hurtful. You’re always straight. Sucking up provides momentary benefits, but it will shred your integrity, and integrity is the ultimate passport. When you’re consistently honest, people can rely on you and trust you, and, in turn, they’ll have no problem having your back,” says Hicks.
Don’t take all the credit
Make sure you always share credit where it’s rightfully due. A simple “thank you” to the co-worker who’s always helping you with the printer or the office assistant who makes sure that coffee is ready every morning, can take you a long way. Making others feel good about themselves will also help you feel more satisfied with who you are and focus less on the negative things, says Hicks.
Show a little empathy
In the book called “Empathy: Why It Matters, and How to Get It”, empathy is defined as “the art of stepping imaginatively into the shoes of another person, understanding their feelings and perspectives, and using that understanding to guide your actions”.
According to Redford Williams, M.D., a professor at Duke University’s Behavioral Medicine Research Center and author of In Control, empathy is “appreciation’s first cousin. The never-fail talent to employ is listening. Look the person in the eyes, keep your mouth shut, and, most important, stay open to being swayed”. Being a good listener and showing some empathy with someone’s situation translates into a better relationship with people and ultimately, with yourself. Feeling more connected to others will make you feel happier and more satisfied with your life.
