Wednesday, August 25, 2010

Hey, Over Here!

I’m back from Charleston. Nice town. I didn’t get to see much of it because I was there for business. Arrive Monday night, leave on Tuesday night. I prefer quick business trips like that because I’m not away from the kingdom for very long but they wear me out. I missed my meditation session this morning because my body just needed to rest. I lay in the bed and watched the clock and reminded myself that I need to be kinder to myself. For me, mediation will never be an obligation but will always be something that I enjoy and benefit from.

Anyway, the trip itself, although short was quite productive. The intent was to smooth some feathers (which I did not ruffle) and stroke some egos. Due to some recent realignments I am now responsible for this area so I went down there to meet the folks that I’d be supporting and find out what their needs are. The recurring theme? “Don’t ignore me.” These folks were not shy about letting me know that they felt somewhat ignored by my predecessor. Some exercised diplomacy while discussing the matter. Others were just blunt about it. I do not have a problem with folks being direct, however, my predecessor’s reputation was being sullied and it gave me food for thought: If I slip up, they won’t have a problem trashing me either.

I’ve been supporting them for the past two weeks and they have done nothing but sing my praises. It was still important to get down there and make sure that they know that I’m making them a priority. Shake hands. Smile. Listen intently. The typical dog-and-pony show. Blech.

The whole thing got me to thinking. Remember the scene in Fatal Attraction when Glenn Close says, “I’m not going to be ignored, Dan!” Well, we all know what happened there. My point is, people in relationships, whether they be romantic, familial, or business just want to know that they aren’t being ignored. That their efforts are not being taken lightly. They want to know that they are appreciated. Usually it doesn’t take much to let someone know that they are important. That their concerns will not go unnoticed.

So what’s the take-away? Don’t ignore the people in your life. That is, if you want them to stay in your life.

6 comments:

TJ said...

Everyone just wants to be acknowledged. So simple, yet so important.

Diva (in Demand) said...

*Waving at Chele to let her know she's appreciated*

:)

Icey said...

Yes!!! Being acknowledged goes a loooong way in maintaining relationships!

Speaking of business trips, I may be going on my very frist one, to Chicago for a couple of days.

Luv said...

no one likes feeling invisible or like they don't matter.. you did a great thing and I am sure they will continue to sing your praises

Remnants of U said...

So simple, but sometimes we need a reminder. Thanks for reminding me. :-)

Kristy @Loveandblasphemy said...

You are one smart lady. Truly.