leave everything a little better than i found it

Many products now have a toll-free phone number where consumers can call to complain or comment. It occured to me recently that I only call when I am complaining, though this does not happen often.

So….. I decided to call when I discover something that is extra good or delicious or interesting. It takes the person in the call center by surprise to receive good feedback on their product instead of the usual negativity, and they respond quite happily. I know that their job can be fairly stressful.

This is a fun project. ;-D

I think this goal is about Caring. It really does not take much effort to go the extra distance and do the small tasks that show we care about things. It is optional, and probably unnoticed by others except those who also care. I have been laughed at by certain co-workers for doing ‘optional’ tasks which I thought needed to be done: their attitude was ‘why bother to do that? just leave it for the next guy.’

Some of my pet projects are environmental things such as picking up litter, collecting and planting tree seeds, and teaching kids to appreciate nature. If I see potted trees tipped over by the wind at a nursery, I will go over and stand them back up (otherwise they won’t get any water, next time they are watered). They sort of call out to me. We get a lot of tourists here, and I enjoy helping them, too. If they are lost or have problems, I don’t mind taking the time to listen, and find the information they need. I remember when I have travelled and was helped by friendly local people… it made my visit a wonderful experience. And it only took a few minutes of caring.