Study It, Learn It, Forget It … Relate to People
“Some people care too much. I think it’s called love.” – Winnie the Pooh
A few days ago, I heard a pastor friend talk about the counseling aspect of the work he does for his church. I was unaware so many people visit their church leader (i.e., pastor, priest, etc.) when they encounter problems in life, whether it be an addiction, marriage infidelity, or employment issues.
Over the years, my friend has invested significant time and money in his counseling studies. Although he is not trained to provide in-depth services, he noted that he leads with the Holy Spirit to help those who approach him. He is also smart enough to have a handy list of professionals when it is time to refer the individuals who come to him.
At some point during our conversation, he mentioned that academic work and professional certifications are helpful, but when it comes right down to it, making a connection with the person in need is what truly matters.
He said, “Study it, learn it, forget it … relate to people!”
Good Point!
When I heard this statement, it made sense to me.
The fact is that degrees and certifications are good enough to get us in the door, but the most effective people in any line of work are those who can make a connection with others.
I remember hearing the following from a business leader …
“I learned many years ago that my advancement in this company depended on my ability to get along with others. For me, a healthy personality is one that can get along with many other personalities.”
The Basics
I share with my students that career success depends on these three components:
Earn the highest degree possible for your field.
Pursue professional certifications that apply to your discipline.
Get as much work experience as possible.
Based on the conversation with my pastor friend, I am going to add the following: Do everything you can to relate to people.
It’s important to know that most people do not care about our degrees, work experience, and other accomplishments. Instead, they want to have a connection with us.
Simple Examples
Here are some examples I can share …
Our daughter Kaitlin will be visiting from San Diego soon, and spending quality time with her is important.
My wife Dulce and I are leading the Holy Spirit Parish Festival, and volunteering helps us realize the value of serving others.
We are planning a family vacation this summer. It will be our second trip as a family this year, and we all value the beautiful moments we can share together.
Dulce and I are celebrating 28 years of marriage on May 10, and we are looking forward to spending time together.
As you notice from these examples, they have nothing to do with personal accomplishments.
Rather, they have everything to do with love, kindness, and humility. As time goes by, it is becoming clear to me that the simple things in life are the most precious, and sometimes the most elusive.
See you next week, my friends!
Inspiring Quotes
“The object of love is not getting something you want but doing something for the well-being of the one you love.” – Gary Chapman
“Kindness can transform someone’s dark moment with a blaze of light. You’ll never know how much your caring matters. Make a difference.” – Amy Leigh
Homework Inquiry
During the next week, here’s your homework inquiry: How will you love others?
I use this opportunity to share with you a unique story and a couple inspiring quotes. Oh ... as a professor at heart, you guessed it, I have a homework inquiry for you. This is a powerful question that might just trigger you to take action on something that really matters in your life. If you feel the Catalyst Newsletter brings benefit to you.