Want a better relationship? Grab a Snickers.

by | May 25, 2015 | Monthly-ish tips

This post is part of our Weekly Tips series.

If you’re anything like me, you’re guilty of taking business—and life—a little too seriously every once-in-a-while. (Actually, if you’re like me, you take things too seriously a lot.)

Not long ago I got a status message from Dropbox that reminded me to walk on the lighter side of life:

tgrp1

(If you can’t see the graphic, it’s providing an update on how many more files need to download, to which it adds, “a long time left. Grab a Snickers”).

[Tweet “#TopTip2015 Relax and remember to #communicate with people in a convivial, approachable, and direct way http://bit.ly/1OVE1D9”]

I like this message because it’s unexpectedly light-hearted, casual, and funny. It’s also honest. It’s something a friend would say to another friend. More than a system tray message, it’s a great reminder to relax a little, and to communicate with people in a convivial, approachable, and direct way.

I know just about all my relationships—especially the ones marked by challenging circumstances—would benefit from a little levity. How about yours?

Make It Real

This week, look for opportunities to bring some merriment to your interactions. (Yes, I did indeed say “merriment.”) How might you be a little friendlier? A little more approachable?

Learn More

TAfieldbook

Read more about consulting and the art of self-deprecation, or find out how humor might advance your trusted advisor goals in Chapter 8 of The Trusted Advisor Fieldbook.

 

Now I’m off to grab a Snickers …

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Andrea Howe

As the founder of The Get Real Project, I am the steward of our vision and our service offerings, as well as a workshop leader and keynote speaker. Above all else, I am an entrepreneur on a mission: to kick conventional business wisdom to the curb and transform how people work together as a result. I am also the co-author, with Charles H. Green, of The Trusted Advisor Fieldbook (Wiley, 2012).

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