You know when you come across a great quote in a book that makes you stop reading and say “wow, that was concise and hits the nail on the head!” I wanted to share one of my all-time favorites from a book that many of us consumer-experience-geeks have at arms’ length at any given time. The reason this resonates with me so much is because it addresses the very essence of human relationships, and speaks to a very positive approach you can easily refer to in every meaningful interaction, every day. From our friend Fred Reichheld at Bain:
“It always seemed to me that success in business and in life should result from your impact on the people you touch – whether you have enriched their lives or diminished them”
For whatever reason, my brain processes information chunks at a time, much in the same way I eat (slowly, enjoying bite by bite), so quotes like this that deliver a range of applicability in 10 seconds or less really put me in my place.
Yes you have to make a conscious effort. So why try to contribute positively in every interaction? Why make an effort to add to each others’ success and enjoyment as often as possible? Why break down the barriers and get to the root of what matters?
When you think about it, whether individually, or as a business…WHY NOT? Why operate any other way? The most innovative companies in the world have adopted a methodology to implement and manage this within their day to day interactions, to maintain the fundamentals of a consumer-centric culture. We as individuals can do it for free.
Speaking of which, looking at the expression on my wife’s face as I type this over a longgggg slowwww breakfast (naturally), it looks like I’ve got some enriching to do myself. Sorry babe, off we go!!!
Meet Nick Thomas 
Another great post! Reminds me of the quote: “People may not remember exactly what you did, or what you said, but they will always remember how you made them feel.”