Imagine - Civility is the Norm, again!

As we all have become accustomed to at the genesis of a new year – resolutions abound – great intentions, best hopes for better, different and improved.

I want to challenge each of us to go in a different direction. Rather than personal resolutions what if we collectively resolved to make an enduring difference, impact on others – for others?

Making a difference does not have to be “extra” ordinary. In fact, it is in the little things that make the biggest impact. It’s picking up a piece of trash, returning a shopping cart left in the middle of a parking space, opening the door for someone with their hands full, letting someone with a few items go in front of you at the grocery store, or a thank you, your welcome, please – you remember – simple manners, politeness, gratitude, consideration of others, and etc.

In many respects, we have lost or misplaced so many of the attributes of a civil society. So much so, that at least one if not two generations has never experienced in whole the greatness or the power of civility.

Civility is a choice – a conscious decision.

These decisions over time become habitual and very natural. This is as it should be!

Civility begins with each of us. It is not contingent upon others, conditions, or circumstances.

Not so long ago civility was reinforced throughout our communities by common values, beliefs, and practices centered on fundamental truths such as dignity and respect for self and others. It was the expected not the exception.

So, why not?

Teetering on the obvious – home and in ones’ personal life is where civility begins. The second step is in the workplace or our public life!

At the heart of civility is a value proposition that each person has inherent worth, significance and as such is worthy of our respect and dignity.

In the workplace civility is about parking egos, titles, and positions at the door to seek the highest good for others. It’s about being unselfish. It’s about treating others according to the “golden rule”. It’s about not thinking or acting as if you are better than anyone else. As John Lennon penned, “Imagine” what the workplace would look like, sound like, or feel like with a mindset of selflessness - others before self.

Civility in the work place is sincerely and genuinely asking, “How can I assist you?” “What can I do for you?”

Civility in the work place is devoid of sarcasm, insults, and vulgarity. It requires choosing words that edify, encourage, and build up rather than tear down.

It is a workplace that is transparent in intentions and affirms through critical and crucial conversations – it is an environment that is not about the “one” but the “many”.

Suffice; Civility in the workplace is our responsibility - each one of us.

As 2015 unfolds, dare to be different in your workplace.

Lead and serve by your actions more than your words.

Resolve to be civil and model it for others -