In the business world, the concept of “kaizen” is well-known. It refers to the process of constant improvement, finding ways to reduce waste and improve productivity.

We can take some of the practices of kaizen and apply it in our own lives, asking the questions: how can I reduce friction and increase goodwill?

For example, we might find ourselves referring to a stranger as a “man”, “guy” or “woman”. We can decide in the future to refer to a “gentleman” or a “lady”, or if appropriate, ask for their name to speak to them more personably.

If someone offers us a compliment, sometimes we might seek to dismiss it. Instead, we can express our gratitude, and perhaps even return the compliment.

When we look, we can find opportunities to be a little kinder. Then one day in the near future, people will say about us that we are exceptionally pleasant, a delight to be around, an ever valuable companion.

For the transcript: A Little More Polite A Beautiful Thought