Managing Your Sphere Of Influence

When I was in the convenience store business many years ago, I managed multiple locations for a national chain. I was constantly amazed at the difference between the stores. Some offered a friendly atmosphere, were outgoing, offered great customer service with very few problems and were usually more profitable. Other locations always had problems; employee turnover, inventory shortages, lower–than–expected sales, etc. just not a fun place to work or shop.

We could universally trace the issues back to the manager's attitude. This seems to be a cosmic truth; you will find it with chain restaurants, especially McDonalds, Burger King, Home Depot, and even Tractor Supply Stores. Even though they all have the same name and items to sell, you often prefer one location to another. It all boils down to store culture. Why should you care? Because you set the tone for the people around you, your job, your family, your church group, your woodworking and wood–turning club. In fact, you have a major impact on every group you interact with.

I’m suggesting you actively cultivate a culture of generosity with one another along with kindness, thoughtfulness, and caring on purpose. It costs very little to be nice, to say encouraging things, and to offer a little help with a smile when needed.

We all know folks who seem mad at the world and always find something to complain about. You can almost see that black cloud hanging over their head. I strive diligently to be the other guy; looking for the pony in a room full of horse droppings, glad that my glass is half full, happy to see another opportunity instead of a problem.

I actively look for encouraging things to say to everyone I meet. Conversations turn out better, I make friends quicker, and potential issues often just evaporate. I’ve learned to do it consciously and on purpose and I think my life is better for it. Why don’t you give it a try and let me know how it turns out? Remember that wherever you go, there you are.

Here is my inspiration for this week’s message:

Proverbs 16:24

Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body.

Ephesians 4:29

Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.

1 Thessalonians 5:11 ESV

Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.