Teri Burgos-Gutierrez, Corporate Trainer

Teri, a wife to a dentist, and mother to 3 adolescent sons, trains professionals and writes textbooks in Speech. She can be reached at gutierrez_teri@yahoo.com

MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN 2008

“Be always at war with your vices, at peace with your neighbors, and let each New Year find you a better man.”   Benjamin Franklin

We are all aware that our lives have meaning and that we are all in a position to contribute to a greater good. We are aware that ahead lies an opportunity to make the world beautiful in our own little ways. Yes! We can help change the world one moment and one person at a time. We may not be able to make a name for ourselves in the industries we are in nor occupy the highest position in our line of work, but surely, we can make a difference in the lives of those we see each and every day at the workplaces we are in.

1. Be on time. “Time is gold.” Punctuality is respect for other people’s time. At work, be on time… even when others are not.
2. Return phone calls. In the Age of Communication, let us begin to think that returning phone calls, email transactions, and text messages as opportunities to make a difference.
3. Be the first to say “I’m sorry.” In the workplace where anxiety and stress-related illnesses are in great abundance, don’t let shame or pride paralyze you. Be brave enough to become the better person. You will discover that one life will be changed – yours!
4. Listen to others. Listening to your colleagues is a gift. It is a sure sign of respect for other’s thoughts. A true listener not only hears but listens with the ear, head, and heart.
5. Bring out the best from others. Allowing your co-workers to shine and show their hidden potentials will also make you a better person.
6. Set your priorities. Live a balanced life. In the busy marketplace we are in, take time to think which comes first. We are beset with responsibilities, obligations, choices, and opportunities. Setting your goals for 2008 will affect positive change in you and the world in general.
7. Give yourself a break. Have time for yourself. Sing a song. Smell a flower. Watch a bird fly. Listen to the waves along the shore. All these are for free! Allow a few minutes a day for rest and quiet contemplation.

May I quote William Arthur when he said: “Another fresh New Year is here - another year to live, to banish worry, doubt, and fear – another year to love, laugh, and give.”  Indeed, 2008 is here. May it be another fresh New Year to live, to love, and to give.

Have a happy, abundant, and love-filled new year by making a difference in 2008!