Be More

Back in 2004 when I was working on my Masters degree in Adult Education, I decided to focus my thesis on "Rejuvenating Personal Spirit in the Workplace".  Through my research I came across a woman who is committed to this very cause - and is recognized all over the world for her work. Little did I know then, that this woman would be become a friend and someone near and dear to my heart.

This woman's name is Barbara Glanz. She is a Certified Speaking Professional and talks to groups all over the world about how to C.A.R.E. in the workplace. (Creative Communication, Appreciation for all, Respect and Reason for Being, Empathy and Enthusiam). Despite how incredibly busy Barbara is - she gave me time on the phone when I took a chance and called her all those years ago. She sent me some of her books and audio tapes free of charge. In that brief interaction she instilled a confidence and hope within me about what I was trying to do.

All these years later, I am in a position within an organization that coordinates all special functions and PR efforts. Earlier this summer I found a way to bring Barbara to Maine to speak to my organization. What a gift it was to meet a personal mentor! I was not greeted with a hand shake, I was greeted with a big bear hug. Barbara congratulated me on my work and my efforts professionally and rejuventated my spirit to keep trying to make a difference in a way that only I know how.

You can learn more about Barbara here: http://www.barbaraglanz.com/

I have always been someone who has wanted to make a positive difference through the work that I do. In all of my professional positions, I have worked hard to make my work more than just "earning a living". Barbara has been instrumental in showing me how to do that.

I wanted to share an excerpt with you that Barbara wrote in her book entited "The Simple Truths of Appreciation - How each of us can choose to make a difference" 

"When I work for an organization, I often spend a day there. As I walk around the building, I ask people, "What is your work?" Most often they give me either a job title or a job description. What I then say to them is this: "Everyone of us in this world is so much MORE than a title or job description. When I ask you, 'What is your work?', what I want you to think about is this:

How is what you do everyday making someone's life better?

It does not matter whether you clean the restrooms or run the company, you can find a way to make someone's life better, and THAT is your very important work!"

As I share this idea, I see people's faces light up because at last they realize that they DO make a difference, and their work IS important. They feel appreciated because they are making the world a better place.

What is your work?