The good you make happen for others, God will make happen for you. Ephesians 6:8 paraphrase
Perhaps the single most powerful way to succeed in life is to have more concern for our fellow human beings. Normally, we are overwhelmingly concerned about ourselves, driven by our own personal interest, motives, and ambitions. However, the happiest people literally lose themselves in the feelings, thoughts, and aspirations of others.
Are you ready to forget yourself and be genuinely interested in the welfare of others? Are you willing to be tolerant and kind to others, listen attentively and silently to their words, and be non-judgmental and open to their opinions and points of view? If you are, you’re an excellent candidate for great success in life, not to mention ever-increasing personal happiness and joy.
Try a little experiment. When you meet with others, immediately put yourself in their shoes. Think only of what they might want. Listen carefully to their thoughts and feelings, and show genuine concern and empathy. Do this for the entire time together. Now watch how the interaction goes. Watch how the interest and energy level of the other person increases. The other individual becomes more animated and involved.
In addition, if you watch closely, you may notice some interesting things starting to happen. A new or different point of view or perspective may be raised in the conversation. New ideas or fresh new insights are suddenly revealed. Or, a new interesting project, or event might suddenly come out of the discussion. This all happens because you have shifted your concern toward the other person. You are now showing you want to know what others think, see, or feel more than promoting yourself and your ideas first.
Listening to others shows that you value them, and what they think, and may have to offer. It says you are approachable, teachable and a person who genuinely cares for others.
It can be an eye-opener for someone who thinks their ideas are the only or best ones.
I usually begin by asking questions. When we begin by asking questions we are saying, we value the person and their thoughts or ideas. If we give our ideas first sometimes this causes people to shut down. So try asking questions before you give your opinions, thoughts or ideas. You will be surprised how people will open up to you and you will bring out the best in them. It just could be their great ideas help you and them to be more successful.