Small gestures mean a lot

A woman working in a meatpacking plant went into the freezer toward the end of her shift one day. Unexpectedly the door closed and locked, trapping her inside.

She yelled and pounded on the door, but no one heard her. She sank down on the floor shivering, wondering if she was going to freeze to death before anyone found her. 

Five hours later, the door opened. A security guard found her almost unconscious and carried her to safety. When she had recovered, she thanked the guard and then asked what had made him go into the freezer, when it wasn't part of his usual routine.

The guard said: "I've been working at this factory for 35 years, and hundreds of people come in and out every day, but you are one of the few who say hello in the morning and goodbye at night. Last night I realized that I didn't hear you say, 'Good night, see you tomorrow.' That made me worry, so I started looking for you."

Simple gestures can have a really big impact.

In my career, I have found that simple gestures and a series of helpful actions can have a significant impact on making others happy in business.

For example, I had a customer who had a critical deadline. Due to an unforeseen issue, we were at risk of not meeting this deadline, which would have had severe consequences for their business. Understanding the gravity of the situation, I decided to take action. I personally oversaw the production and delivery of their envelope order, ensuring it was expedited. We worked through the night, and I even accompanied the delivery to guarantee it arrived on time. The relief and gratitude from the client were palpable. That single gesture of going above and beyond not only made them happy but also cemented our relationship for years to come.

On another occasion, I focused on the happiness of our employees, knowing that their satisfaction would translate into better service for our clients. I initiated a series of actions, including regular recognition for outstanding work, team-building events and an open-door policy for feedback and suggestions. Over time, these actions created a positive work culture where employees felt valued and happy. This, in turn, led to increased productivity and better customer service, which made our clients happy as well. It was a win-win situation.

One way I try to make people happy is showing a genuine interest in what others have to say. Listening is a powerful gesture to make someone feel valued and understood. Offering compliments or sincere praise can brighten anyone's day. Recognize and appreciate the good in others. Offer to help without expecting anything in return. Acts of kindness can have a ripple effect on happiness.

Recognize the efforts of your colleagues. A simple "thank you" can go a long way in making someone feel appreciated. Foster a positive work culture by encouraging teamwork, celebrating successes and creating an environment where everyone feels included and valued.

Get involved in community service. Helping those in need can bring joy to both you and the recipients of your efforts. Research suggests that giving to others can enhance your own happiness as well as theirs.

Smile. A smile is contagious and can instantly lift the mood of those around you. Share positive news and uplifting stories. Positivity can be infectious and can help create a happier environment.

Practice patience. Being patient with others, especially when they are facing challenges, can help ease their stress and contribute to a happier atmosphere. 

The impact of your actions on others' happiness can be profound, and often, it is the small gestures that count the most. Happiness doesn't result from what we get, but from what we give. Giving to others is not just a duty, it is a joy, for it increases your own health and happiness.

Mackay's Moral: A single act of kindness throws out roots in all directions, and the roots spring up to make new trees.

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Harvey Mackay is the author of the New York Times bestseller "Swim With the Sharks Without Being Eaten Alive." He can be reached through his website, www.harveymackay.com, by emailing harvey@mackay.com or by writing him at MackayMitchell Envelope Co., 2100 Elm St. SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414.