A while back, Adam Grant wrote that it’s a higher compliment to call someone thoughtful than it is to call them smart. I didn’t quite get why he decided to compare these two adjectives, but I do think being thoughtful is not only something we can learn but also something we should try to be better at—at work and at home.

Smart is a part of who we are, but thoughtful requires intention and time—the latter of which seems to run scarce for most of us. Thoughtful means we took the time to put ourselves in their shoes for a moment. It’s about care and consideration for someone other than ourself. Thoughtful people are those who pay attention to the people around them, reflect on the situation, and then choose to act and react in a purposeful and loving way. And if you have ever been on the receiving end of some thoughtful words or gesture, you know how wonderful it makes you feel.

So how do we become more thoughtful, especially if we are a leader? First, we can slow down, for goodness sake; thoughtfulness requires time to think and reflect. Give people the benefit of the doubt. Dig deeper by asking some more questions. Express empathy, which is understanding how someone else is feeling. And circle back to make sure they are O.K. If you were ever going to pick a time to be more thoughtful—now would be the time! Thoughtful people make the world a better place and you can be one of those people! Me, too!

Let’s GO! WE GOT THIS!
Beth

P.S. Take the time to read the hyperlinks for more inspiration on being thoughtful!