This post was originally published on this site
“Bring out the best in others, and you can change the world.”
Humans are meant to exist in community, we need each other by God’s design. In contrast to this, the design of our day to day existence in this world prioritizes individualism, selfish egos, and an “I-don’t-need-you” attitude focused on “ME.” (**Even though the “me” attitude can be unhealthy, self-care is important – check out Katrina Bitar’s thoughts here on the YES blog)
When we give into individualism, focus only on “me”, and isolate ourselves from community, we not only negatively impact ourselves, but also the people around us!
It’s important for us to be aware of how our lives, attitudes, and actions are connected to the people around us. When we choose to be a positive light, we can unlock transformative light in others as well!
Here’s some ways YOU can unlock the best in others, and yourself!
Trust others
Though the world may make us feel otherwise, generally people aren’t out to get you! We are so untrustworthy that we hesitate to even smile or say hello to people who are unfamiliar and different than us. If you don’t practice trust, the best part of both people will remain hidden.
Be generous
Part of being a good steward is recognizing the gifts God has given you, and then being generous with those gifts! Give freely to others. Give your time. Give your energy. Give the benefit of the doubt. Share your talents generously, and recognize the talents in others!
Show appreciation
Has someone had a positive impact in your life? Let them know! Appreciate the good that is in others and don’t be shy to give thanks and show gratitude. We’re showing our gratitude to people like YOU who work daily to serve and open your hearts to those in need by sending out a keychain with every donation. Click here to get yours!
Be open minded
There are so many messages thrown at us every day to consume, good and bad. Some of the worst messages are those that build walls between us, messages that reinforce biases or stereotypes that cause us to cast judgement on individuals or even entire groups of people. Instead of judging, be open minded and filter these messages through a lens of compassionate thinking… you may connect with someone you never thought could be possible!
Live in the present
Pay attention to who and what God puts in front of you on a daily basis. We live in a fast-paced society and it is easy to go through the motions without seeing God in everything and everyone around us. Live in the present and acknowledge that every day, every human, every opportunity is a gift from God!
To sum it up, the first step in bringing out the best in others is recognizing that that your actions matter! Acknowledge your role in the communities you are a part of. Whether you are one of many siblings in your family, a member of a club or sports team, a layperson at church, or just a visitor in a public space…embrace community! Then, through ownership of your attitude, improving the way you interact with others and yourself, and taking the challenge daily to live in the present, be open minded, be generous, trust others and show appreciation, you will transform your surroundings for the better!!
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