‘I Love Humanity. It’s People I Hate.’
Not my words, but words featured in a PEANUTS cartoon. And if we’re all completely honest, there are times when we all come across people who, how can I put it tactfully, rub us up the wrong way. They are abrasive. They are negative. They are obnoxious.
So what do we do with them?
Love them.
But love comes in many different packages and must never be confused with the Hollywood passionate romance type of love. It is much bolder than what is presented on the silver screen, and as a leader – one who loves others – you will at times have to develop the following five fruits – in the way you express your love for others.
1. Allow Them To Fail - The greatest teacher is often failure. So let them fail, and even at times let them fall. But be there to dust them off and pick them up with an encouraging word.
2. Speak The Truth – Iron sharpens iron. That means that there are times when sparks will fly. Speaking honestly to a wise recipient though will yield great rewards for all in the future.
3. Chastise In Love - If you do have to correct, then follow the Pareto Principle. 20% correction and then 80% uplift and encouragement. And do it in private.
4. Be There – When they’re succeeding, be there, and when they are failing, be there. Be the one who is there when everyone else has scattered. Your commitment will gain great respect.
5. Let Them Go – Sometimes there is nothing you can do, if someone is not willing to grow or to change. So the best thing that you can do is to let them fly in another sky backed by your prayers and goodwill.
But through it all – even though you may hate what they do or not do – love them anyway.
