INTERACTION WITH OTHERS

Human beings are not the same. The way you conduct yourself is entirely different from other people. Your interests and your values are also quite different from others. But regardless of your differences with other people, you still need to live together and cooperate with each other.

1.      How do you think people with so many differences can cooperate and live together?

2.      What do you think are the important things to keep in mind if you want to live peacefully with other people who are different from you?

 

Respect for the Feelings and Beliefs of Others

1. Practice Active Listening

Active listening requires you to be present in the conversation. Also, to actively listen, you have to demonstrate that you're paying attention.

Listening and hearing are two different activities. When you listen, you process what you're hearing. You have to think about it and respond appropriately

2. Look for Common Ground

Humanity has commonalities along with diversity. If you look hard enough, you can find something that you have in common with another person. It may be a shared experience or a shared value. Once you find common ground, use this as a starting point for a relationship.

3. Serve Others

Service doesn't have to be complicated. It's really about giving back to others. By doing so, you make their life better. Look for ways to lend a helping hand. It can be something as simple as helping them pick up a dropped item. Help them to be of benefit to them. Make it about them and not yourself.

4. Apologize When You're Wrong

If you make a mistake, admit it. Don't try to cover it up. Also, say you're sorry.

Apologizing shows empathy, care, and recognition. It's an act of honesty that requires humility. By apologizing, you demonstrate the value of the wronged person.

5. Be Polite

It doesn't take much effort to be polite. In fact, it's something that we teach children. When you think about it, being polite simply means interacting positively with others. Saying thank you with a smile is the least you can do.

6. Show Gratitude

While saying thank you is being polite, showing gratitude goes deeper with being thankful. Gratitude expresses your appreciation for another person. For instance, you can say, “I just wanted you to know I appreciate how you always look for the good in every situation. It really inspires me to be more  positive.”