Who's Buying and Who's Selling?

I recently heard an interesting stat. Did you know that money is mentioned in the bible more than twice as much as both heaven and hell combined?

Our societies, belief systems and principles are often built around money...or are they? A closer look at behaviour reveals something else all together.

Our societies, belief systems and principles are built on value, not money. Money is simply bits of metal, paper or plastic. It is the value and meaning attached to money that truly concerns us. Money is not the root of all evil, it doesn’t change people, and it doesn’t start wars. Money is simply money. But let’s get back to the value conversation... it’s far more interesting.

When it all boils down, we are all buying or selling something. Ideas, morals, beliefs, goods and services, even love. Charities are selling the notion of altruism and the positive benefit you gain from giving (or at least the successful charities are!) Governments are selling fiscal management and representation of the voting public best interest (or at least they aspire to!) Your local corner store is selling convenience, not just a product.

We are all buying and selling something, and in return the things that are successfully bought and sold are things of a perceived value to the end user. We change mobile phone carrier for better value with another provider. We will gladly pay extras for great service at a nice restaurant, and Matt our business manager goes out of his way to get a coffee from Nook Expresso, his favourite coffee shop. Value takes on many forms.

We also look for value in our life beyond retail sales. We resign and take on another job because the grass is greener on the other side. Relationships end when the value is not there anymore. In many cases, people stop working to their potential for a boss who doesn’t value them anymore.

When you really think about it, the search for value is as much a part of our lives as breathing, sleeping or eating. 

So perhaps it is time to examine three things;

1. Are you getting the value you wish for?
2. Are you providing value to others?
3. Do you value yourself?

Hint: The last one is the most important one to spend time on.

Warm wishes,

Darren and Alison

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The PLUG: Dealing with the Tough Stuff Program

Thursday 24 March 2011

Having trouble delivering results from critical conversations?

'Dealing with the Tough Stuff' gives you, your management or organisation practical tools to deal with the really tough conversations within your workplace.

Many managers struggle with the process of dealing with tough conversations and in many cases actually avoid them completely.  This strategy of avoidance reinforces undesired behaviours and may precipitate further problems.

One of the biggest responsibilities with a leadership position is the importance of addressing and dealing with staff issues.  At times this requires you to 'step up to the plate' and ultimately deal with the tough stuff.

Visit www.toughstuffprogram.com for more information on Dealing with the Tough Stuff.

To register your interest  for Dealing with the Tough Stuff on Thursday 24 March 2011 please contact Matt on 0418 577 277 or matt@pragmaticthinking.com. 

THE GIFT: The Case for Generosity

This weeks gift is by Anya Kamenetz.  In this article Anya delves into a global economy built on the kindness of strangers by explaining how the internet could unlock our natural impulse to share goals.

Download the entire article here