3 Winning Career Principles

This summer, instead of complaining about how hot it is and how this is my least favorite season of all, I decided to do things differently. Typically, I can be impatient and irritable, using the heat as an excuse to behave inappropriately, but not this year. I'm challenging myself to build relationships and connect with people based on three of John C. Maxwell's principles. I am amazed that with all of the years I've spent in school, that some of life's essential skills were never taught. There wasn't a single class offered for effective communication or an elective introducing the art of relationship building. While I was busy learning the importance of reading, writing, and arithmetic; I was left to figure out how to relate to people by way of life's experiences. The following principles will help me cultivate and sustain healthy relationships in my professional life as well as my personal life:

Principle # 1- The Mirror Principle states that the first person we must examine is ourselves. I admitted earlier that I'm not a fan of summer and that I needed to make some changes. In my mind, I can take this principle of my list, right? Wrong! The reason why this principle is still on my list is because self-examination is ongoing and there is always something to improve upon. Throughout the course of a workday, I have learned to expect the unexpected. I have to admit that I have an expectation cut off, which is an hour before my shift ends. Last minute surprises can and will transpire, unfortunately, I can't control them. Instead, I have to practice self-control and continue to work well with others in the process. Examining myself helps me to see that sometimes I am a part of the problem and not necessarily the solution.

Principle # 2- The Elevator Principle states that we can lift people up or take them down in our relationships. As I strive to build better relationships, I need to make a conscious choice to elevate others. One way that I can do that is by carefully selecting my words. In understanding that words are powerful, I am able to insert positive suggestions instead of negative commentary throughout the course of a workday. It's always nice to hear people compliment me on how positive I am or inquire about why I'm always smiling. It is in those moments that I take advantage of the opportunity to share positive insight, or lift up others instead of taking them down.

Principle # 3- The Learning Principle states that each person we meet has the potential to teach us something. I believe that everyone is good at something and that everyone has a story. It doesn't matter who you are or what your title is, learning is universal. I am willing to learn from anyone who is willing to teach me and my thirst for knowledge transcends gender, ethnic, and economic backgrounds. Because knowledge is power, this principle will not only help me strengthen relationships, it will help me sustain them as well.

Being able to relate to others is key in building relationships. By incorporating these principles into my daily interactions, my work relationships have dramatically improved. This summer has been one of my best summers ever and it's because I was willing to make some necessary changes. Are you willing to do the same?

More from this contributor:

3 Things That Enhanced My Career

How I Respond To Workplace Change

Why Taking A Career Risk Is Worth It