Some want to treat the senator, or the congressman or the CEO like royalty, but treat the janitor or the secretary like a nobody.
This is a form of snobbery.
Remember, principles govern the consequences of our choices. We have two choices when we encounter a principle: 1) align with it; or, 2) ignore it to our peril. Take the principle of gravity: we can align with it– build a hydroelectric dam, start a skydiving company, build a ski resort, etc.–or we can ignore it to our peril and fall off a cliff. Gravity doesn’t change. Our respect and alignment (or not) with the principle is the only thing that changes. Principles govern relationships, too. They, like gravity, are ancient and timeless. And we have the same choice. Align or Ignore.
Humility is a principle that is just as real as gravity. When we are humble, we treat everyone, the senator or the secretary with the same respect. We can ignore this principle or we can align with it.
And when we do, we may be surpised at how many doors start to open. Why? I believe it is because the world is upside down.
I remember being told by an executive in New York that I was the only salesperson he had let into his office and the reason he agreed to see me was because I was nice to his secretary.
And I can tell dozens of similar stories.
The people who hold the keys to the gates you want to get through are often considered to be “low level.”
Treat everyone like gold.
Everyone.
Be humble and watch what happens.
Or be proud and snobbish.
One is like building a ski resort and the other is like falling off a cliff.
Both involve gravity.
Humility, like gravity, is powerful. And aligning with it (and not ignoring it) works whether you believe it or not – just like gravity.