The problem with taking offense is that it's really hard to figure out what to do with it after you're done using it. Better to just leave it on the table and walk away. Umbrage untaken quietly disappears.
Seth GodinRead
One theory says that if you treat people well, you're more likely to encourage them to do what you want, making all the effort pay off. Do this, get that. Another one, which I prefer, is that you might consider treating people with kindness merely because you can. _x000D_ _x000D_ Regardless of what they choose to do in response, this is what you choose to do. Because you can.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Treating others with kindness is a choice you make, regardless of their response.
The quote by Seth Godin emphasizes that kindness should be offered unconditionally, not as a means to manipulate or control others. It captures the essence of genuine generosity, suggesting that treating people well is a reflection of your values and character, rather than a strategy for personal gain.
Themes
KindnessRelationshipsChoicePeopleValues
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech on community service, you might say, 'As Seth Godin reminds us, we should treat others with kindness simply because we can.'
More from Seth Godin
All quotes →Not adding value is the same as taking it away.
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Excellence isn’t about meeting the spec, it’s about setting the spec. It defines what the consumer sees as quality right this minute, and tomorrow, if you’re good, you’ll reset that expectation again
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Living with doubt ... is almost always more profitable than living with certainty. _x000D_ People don't like doubt, so they pay money and give up opportunities to avoid it. _x000D_ Entrepreneurshi p is largely about living with doubt. If you need reassurance, you're giving up quite a bit to get it. On the other hand, if you can get in the habit of seeking out uncertainty, you'll have developed a great instinct.
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