This week I started back at work after a 3-week restful staycation.
My inbox was overflowing …
As I sat at my desk, replying to email after email, it dawned on me that I was treating my customers as “things” to get done, boxes to tick. I was so busy being busy that personalized care had gone out the window in the name of efficiency.
As I reflected on this, the word generosity came to mind and this scripture.
If you give to others, you will be given a full amount in return. It will be packed down, shaken together, and spilling over into your lap. The way you treat others is the way you will be treated. Luke 6:38 (CEV)
It reminded me that this applies to “giving” time.
Today I slowed my pace. I got back to interacting with each customer and their enquiry like I had all the time in the world. I gave each one the attention and care they deserve.
I didn’t run out of time. There was plenty.
When we hold tightly to our time, when we are “too busy” to slow down and connect, we can be left with a “work hangover”. Arriving home at the end of a busy day only to feel bad about the things we could have done differently or worse, defending those moments when we were resistant, defensive, or stingy.
In contrast, and quite surprisingly, being time generous leaves you feeling joyful and energised.
I think doing our work with generosity and in service of others is where purpose and satisfaction are found in our vocations. It’s what “spills” over to us in the form of a great day and a job well done.
distillations.blog 