Bringing Humanity to Work: A Vote for Change
Choosing a Path
When we step into our workplaces, we make a choice. It’s not just about showing up and going through the motions—it’s about bringing humanity to work. It’s about making a change happen and contributing something meaningful. And in making this choice, we also cast a vote.
A Vote for the Customer
When we bring our authentic selves to work, we are ultimately voting for the customer we seek to serve. We are committing to providing them with the best experience possible. Our dedication and efforts directly impact the satisfaction and loyalty of those we serve. By bringing humanity to work, we demonstrate that we genuinely care about their needs and desires.
A Vote for the Institution
In addition to voting for the customer, we also cast a vote for the boss and the owners of the institution where we work. We align ourselves with their vision and values by choosing to bring our humanity to the workplace. By doing so, we become advocates for positive change within the organization. We contribute to a culture of empathy, respect, and inclusivity.
A Vote for Our Co-workers
Our vote for humanity at work also extends to our co-workers. We show our support and trust in them by choosing to bring our authentic selves to the table. We become teammates who uplift and encourage one another, fostering a collaborative and productive environment. However, it is essential to recognize that this vote is not unconditional. If our co-workers do not reciprocate the trust and respect we offer, it may be time to consider seeking a new workplace where our humanity is valued.
Choosing Not to Waste Our Best Work
Our best work is a precious resource. It represents our passion, dedication, and expertise. Therefore, we must be mindful of who we share it with. Bringing humanity to work means not wasting our efforts on jerks, selfish hustlers, or those who fail to appreciate our contributions. We owe it to ourselves to seek out environments where our work is valued and acknowledged.
Don’t Volunteer for Ingratitude
Volunteering our best work to those who don’t appreciate it is akin to throwing it into a void. It is a disheartening experience that drains our motivation and diminishes our enthusiasm. While it may not always be possible to control the attitudes and behaviors of others, we have the power to choose where we invest our time and energy. If our efforts go unnoticed or are met with ingratitude, it may be time to reevaluate our surroundings and find a workplace that truly values our contributions.
Protecting the Sanctity of Our Work
By being selective about where we bring our humanity to work, we protect the sanctity of our craft. We preserve its authenticity and ensure that it is not co-opted by those who do not deserve it. Our work deserves to be shared with individuals and institutions that recognize its value and invest in its growth. This conscious decision to protect our work ultimately benefits all parties involved, including ourselves, our customers, and our colleagues.
Final Thoughts: Making a Meaningful Choice
Bringing humanity to work is not just about fulfilling our obligations—it is a deliberate and meaningful choice. It is a commitment to contributing something positive and transformative to our environments. By voting for the customer, the institution, and our co-workers, we actively shape the culture and atmosphere of our workplace. Furthermore, by choosing not to waste our best work on those who do not appreciate it, we protect the integrity of our craft and preserve its significance. So, let us continue to show up as our authentic selves, bringing humanity to work and making a difference in the world.
Finally, let us note that this choice is not always easy. It requires effort, emotional labor, and a willingness to take risks. However, the rewards far outweigh the challenges. By bringing our humanity to work, we create a more compassionate and fulfilling working environment for ourselves and those around us. So, let us choose wisely and vote for change.