In principle, the chances of making good group decisions are greatly increased if all the participants believe that there is good in everyone. We’re more likely to do well if we look for the best in each other. For some, believing that there is good in every person is a moral conviction. For others, seeking and bringing out the best in people is just plain practical.
Practical Tip: Act as if there is good in everyone, even when it’s not apparent. Treat every person along your path as if they are special. If you believe in God, act as if there is that of God in every person.
To act this way is to give the benefit of the doubt. It is to assume best intentions. It is to be attentive, respectful, supportive, and encouraging. When we look for the best in people rather than the worst, it makes them want to be with us and work with us. When a group is relentlessly seeking out the best from within each person, people give their best to the group and great things are achieved.
– Craig Freshley
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This is the tip that outweighs all others. If everyone would respond to EVERY situation this way, then not only could better decisions be made, but also, the world would be a kinder place!
This is an important belief that I grew up with, and it continues to motivate me, even when, at times, it is extremely difficult to “endure” some individuals who, for one example, only criticize and never offer to help.