Will Lukang, PMP, MBA, MASCL

There is common English phrasing in the biblical book of Matthew that says, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” That phrase resonates with me and I use it as guide on how I live my life.

How often have you met people who look at credentials, occupations, title, status symbol, or what people wear to decide how they will respond? This happens very often and it is very sad, but that is the reality.

A perfect example of this is when people eat at a restaurant. Sometimes they give the waiter or waitress a hard time because the food is not to their liking. Sometimes I observe how people behave when they are at the checkout counter. They don’t even say “hi” or smile at the people, because they are just going through the motions. However, one has to understand that everyone plays a vital role around us. Let’s take for example the people who take out the trash and clean our offices. If they stop showing up for work, our workplace will be an undesirable place to be in. Therefore it is important to treat everyone with respect regardless of their status or occupation.

When we treat people with respect, they will reciprocate our kindness. Besides, it makes this world a better place to live. Doing so will show that we value them and appreciate what they do for us.

As a parent, I always stress the importance of treating people with respect. I taught my children not to judge people on appearance. I told them that it is not what you have that make you valuable, but rather how you present yourself and treat everyone that matters in life.

In my prior post “Leadership Lessons from My Father”, I talked about how my father had influenced and shaped the person that I turned out to be. Because of that, I’m passing the same lessons to my children. In addition, I also do the same with my mentee. In effect, I believe in paying it forward. I encourage you to treat everyone with respect and you’ll see how it affects others.