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Here we are, come to the end of another week, that to me feels like it has flown past — again! It’s a sign I’m getting busier, which is good. But I need to remain aware of whether I’m spending my “busy” time simply being busy or actually productive. This weekend will be a good time for me to reflect on that, and redirect — if need be — my efforts next week…a slight course correction, if you will.

Right now, though, let’s focus on the weekend. Are you ready? Have you gotten into the habit of thinking about it and preparing for it ahead of time, yet?

What relationships do you need to nurture this weekend?

I need to spend more time with my husband.

Are there new relationships you would like to initiate?

I do have some new connections I want to make and will give some thought this weekend to how best to initiate them.

What do you need to do to focus on and nurture yourself this weekend?

A bit of alone time. I’m working on my “I have a Dream” speech assignment; it’s part of the Deeper Path Coaching Cohort I’m working my way through. I will be reading my Dream speech to my fellow travelers on the Path…It will be an interesting experience. I’ve carried so many of these thoughts around with me for a long time, but rarely verbalize them to others.

How much rest do you need this weekend?

How much – and what kind of – activity do you need?

What loose ends do you need to tie up from this week?

What do you need to do to prepare yourself for a great start to next week, preparing for Monday?

Finally, what thought are you giving to things you have planned or need to prepare for or complete in the coming months?

On Monday, we begin month three —  focus on Excellence. More thoughts on this over the weekend.

Have a great weekend, and I’ll “see” you soon!

Time to get your journal out. Take some time today to reflect on the response you received from your intentional act of service yesterday.

How did your action affect your relationship with that person?

How did your self-less action strengthen your family or team?

When you’ve given that some time, reflect on the actions you have taken this month to add value to others, to encourage them in their potential, and to put your team’s agenda in front of your own. What new synergy has been created on your team as a result of your leadership in relationships?

Speaking from personal experience, I can attest to the fact that when I am intentional about doing things for others — when I focus on touching their heart before I ask for a hand — I reap the benefits in many ways. I form deeper, stronger relationships with others, which is far more satisfying – for me, anyway – than shallow interactions. I learn from them. I am better able to to help others because I come to understand who they are and what they need. And I have to say, I love doing the acts of kindness.

Sometimes it’s a stretch trying to tailor an act to someone specific — to do something for them that they will actually appreciate, rather than giving them something I think they should have. For example, last night, I brought home a bag of Jelly Belly’s for my husband — I know he loves them! Quick, simple, results in a smile.

What has your experience been?

Welcome to “Intentional Acts of Kindness” Day!

Today, think about how you can contribute to and invest in relationships. Perform one small, intentional, act of service for a co-worker, family member, or friend. And by “intentional” I mean think about it ahead of time, plan it out, consider the potential impact before you take action.

Here are a few suggestions:

  • Buy them a coffee or lunch
  • Give your seat to someone if you happen to take a bus or train
  • Write a Thank You note to someone (make it personal and specific)
  • Do another family member’s chores for the day
  • Arrange an introduction for someone you know who is looking for a job
  • Give one of your most valuable offerings — sit down and truly just listen to someone who needs a sounding board
  • Give someone a sincere, specific compliment

I’m sure you can come up with lots of other great ideas, more appropriate for the person you have in mind…but these should get your thoughts started!

Who will you invest in today?

What small act of service will you perform?

If this isn’t something you do often, I suspect you will be surprised by how good it feels to simply give and have no expectation for receiving anything in return. It does wonders for relationships when people understand you are just there, doing something kind, because it’s the right thing to do and there is no other agenda behind your actions.

Please, please…share your stories in the comments box below.