c2p-cmd/Good-Quotes-Authors huggingface dataset:
To Polish the Gold & Help Others Shine . . . Brag about their accomplishments in front of others:For years, I have shared that the definition of a good friend is someone who says nice things about you behind your back. And the definition of a GREAT friend is someone who says GREAT things to others in front of you. One of the kindest things a husband or wife can do for their relationships is to brag about their partner’s qualities to other people.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
To Polish the Gold & Help Others Shine . . . Focus on the Positives:Focusing on the positives will get you further in business and further in life. Whatever you focus on will expand. If you focus on what you do not like about another person, they will become so intolerable to you that you cannot bear to be around them. However, if you focus on their positives and can find something redeeming, regardless of how small, the positivity needed to experience a more constructive interaction and relationship will manifest before your eyes.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
To Polish the Gold & Help Others Shine . . . Be complimentary:Find something positive to say to compliment another person. Whether they are being a great parent, dressing nicely, maintaining a gorgeous yard, or winning a recent 5K run, pick something to acknowledge which is noteworthy.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
To Polish the Gold & Help Others Shine . . . Acknowledge their achievements:Great achievements require great effort and usually come dressed as hard work. Move beyond merely recognizing the achievement and express admiration for the effort it took to get there.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
All compliments are not created equal. Some may change the trajectory of a person’s life, while others fall on deaf ears. Is it well deserved or earned? People will remember you fondly when you have affirmed them in a positive way. Paying compliments creates good will, happy moments, and makes you more likable in return.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
What are the key elements for a fabulous, well-delivered compliment? You . . .•	are sincere and genuine.•	give it freely without expecting anything in return. Your compliment is a selfless gift, not a boomerang.•	are specific and detailed.•	elaborate on why you like something.•	describe how their positive virtue has positively impacted you.•	can use adjectives for more colorful descriptions.•	keep it positive.•	say it like you mean it with intentional impact.•	use discretion and good judgment.•	leave no room for misinterpretation or misunderstanding.•	say the right thing at the right moment and let it flow organically.Finding sincere ways to compliment others is a powerful way to make a great first and last impression.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
UN-Impressive ‘Compliments’ . . .•	When compliments are used as a passive-aggressive way to manipulate others for personal gain.•	Delivering a back-handed compliment which makes others feel bad.•	Dishonesty—you say it but really do not mean it.•	False bravado.•	Manufacturing the moment for your ulterior motives.•	Pandering to win affection, a vote, or approval.•	Exaggerating and being over-zealous.•	Being hypocritical.•	Expressing preferential treatment or making an unfair comparison.•	When it draws attention to a person’s weakness, disabilities, or shortcomings.•	When it is inappropriate and off-color.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
Graciously Accepting a Compliment. How many times have you offered someone a sincere compliment only to have it thrown back in your face as if your assessment were wrong? How did you feel? Women are notorious for this social misstep and poor maneuver. Why do they do it? Rejecting a compliment makes the compliment-giver feel as though they should have said nothing.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
Refusing someone’s kind words can cause the one doing the complimenting to feel bad. Not only might they regret trying to be nice, but you may have cut off your chances of being complimented by them ever again. Being humble is one thing; being rude is another. Practice receiving compliments with grace, dignity, appreciation, and gratitude. The perfect response to a fine compliment is simply, “Thank you!
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
Why Polish the Gold?•	It builds your confidence when you realize that your words have power and can positively influence. •	As you seek to find the good in others, you will enjoy the ripple effect reminder for finding the good in yourself.•	It makes a great ice-breaker to begin a conversation.•	It helps you meet new people and make new friends.•	It strengthens your relationships and builds mutual admiration.•	It brings more happiness and joy into your life.•	A little praise goes a long way to make others happy.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
Service [sur-vis] noun1.	 the act of helping, aiding, or doing work for another.“Does this dictionary definition sound simplistic? Well, it is foundational to delivering world-class, game-changing service. Did you notice it didn’t mention you? True service takes the focus completely off you and devotes it entirely to the needs of another person.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
As you read in The Art of Being, having a heart of service and generosity is a powerful state of being and a positive way to make a great first impression through valuing others. "Service Beyond Self" encourages you to take deliberate action steps to rise above self-interest and ask what you can do for others, not what they can do for you.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
Where my previous motivation had been a self-serving ambition, my new service mindset was dedicated to serving a vision greater than myself. Within a year, I quadrupled my income, and then I doubled it every year thereafter. This service mindset quickly taught me that by helping others achieve their goals, I could more easily achieve my own.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
The Service Mindset. When I began my real estate career at the age of twenty-two, I had a fresh Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing in one hand and ‘a tiger by the tail’ in the other. I was on a mission to be successful in life and in business and make a lot of money in the process. Every goal I set was about Me. Me. Me! I was driven by: How much money could I make? Which property listings paid the biggest commissions? How many calls did I need to make to schedule new appointments? How many listings did I need to have to hit my target? You can see where I am going with this! Working full-time, nights and weekends, seven days a week, I only made eleven thousand dollars in the first year! I was tired, disillusioned, and knew that I had to either change careers or massively shift my mindset.I chose the latter. I took ALL focus off me and re-directed my time, energy, and resources to serving my clients. Their hopes, needs, and desires became my primary focus. How could I help solve their problems?
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
The Service Mindset. When I began my real estate career at the age of twenty-two, I had a fresh Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing in one hand and ‘a tiger by the tail’ in the other. I was on a mission to be successful in life and in business and make a lot of money in the process. Every goal I set was about Me. Me. Me! I was driven by: How much money could I make? Which property listings paid the biggest commissions? How many calls did I need to make to schedule new appointments? How many listings did I need to have to hit my target? You can see where I am going with this! Working full-time, nights and weekends, seven days a week, I only made eleven thousand dollars in the first year! I was tired, disillusioned, and knew that I had to either change careers or massively shift my mindset.I chose the latter. I took ALL focus off me and re-directed my time, energy, and resources to serving my clients. Their hopes, needs, and desires became my primary focus. How could I help solve their problems? And then EVERYTHING began to turn around . . .
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
What is the motive behind your services? If it is self-centered, self-serving, and lacking consideration for others, then earning people’s trust, rapport, and business will inevitably be more of a struggle. A self-serving agenda throws up red flags which stop relationships dead in their tracks. It can destroy trust, make people wary of your intentions, and push customers to your competition.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
However, if your agenda is truly to serve, your ROI (return on investment) will substantially expand. As we know from the "Law of Reciprocity," what you give is what you get. If you are helping people only to see what you can get out of it, your pie stays small and your opportunities stay limited. However, if you sincerely want to help people succeed, you will not only enjoy more success, but expand your possibilities beyond your expectations. Once you see the benefits from all directions, you will not want it any other way!
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
Service Beyond Self is Essential for Success Because It . . .•	Builds credibility, trust, and customer satisfaction.•	Strengthens your personal reputation and public image.•	Fosters goodwill and makes people feel appreciated.•	Helps you build healthy relationships with others.•	Nurtures collaboration, participation, and cooperation.•	Reaffirms a continuity of service for quality assurance, integrity, and reliability. •	Saves money—it costs less to keep existing customers than it does to create new ones. When you do it right the first time, you don’t have to fix it the next time.•	Improves communication and builds rapport.•	Fosters mutual respect and understanding•	By providing other people with what they want, you will get more of what you want!
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
To Move from Woe to Wow . . . Listen Attentively•	Be fully present and give your customer your full attention.•	Stay calm and remain patient.•	Do not interrupt or become defensive.•	Let the customer express his or her concerns.•	Nod your head and use affirming words to show that you are listening.•	Repeat back and empathize, when necessary. This confirms your understanding of the problem or question.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
To cultivate bravery and courage, reduce uncertainty by being prepared. As Zig Ziglar once said, “Success happens when opportunity meets preparation.” Preparing well for potential outcomes will provide you with a safety net if there is a hiccup, glitch, or temporary setback.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
To cultivate bravery and courage, practice, practice, practice. Each time you test your bravery you grow your self-assurance and increase your comfort to a greater degree. Repetition helps build confidence and competence. You did it; now do it again!
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
To cultivate bravery and courage, Do It Scared. Being scared is a precursor to bravery, otherwise, it wouldn’t be bravery, would it? Mustering the courage to stretch beyond your familiar territory is a rewarding act in itself.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
To cultivate bravery and courage, may the Force be with you. Whether you fortify yourself with a positive mental attitude, affirmations, faith in God, prayer, and meditation, or an innate sense of personal destiny, you have the power to summon your courage and be brave. “Make it so, Number One!
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
And as is often the case, the people who would benefit the most from reading a book like this are the ones least likely to buy and read it. For you, however, this chapter will serve as a sterling reminder to make your manners shine.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
You already know the difference between being a gracious person versus a rude one.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
Impeccable manners and courteous behavior are the hallmarks for healthy relations and human interaction.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
Polite people tend to be more respected, admired, and appreciated than their rude counterparts.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
Your manners are critical for both making a positive first impression and creating success in life, love, and business.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
Without civilized social graces, not only is life more difficult, but a positive first impression can be destroyed as fast as it is made.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
While good old-fashioned manners and etiquette have worked for centuries, new standards and expectations have come into play with the modern world. Behaviors which would have been appalling in the past are now socially acceptable.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
Regardless of the trends we see in the deterioration of morality, respect, and values, wise people will still strive to take the high road to rise above the ever-increasing rudeness and stand apart from the crowd.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
I remember hearing years ago about a centenarian being interviewed on her birthday. She was asked, “Throughout your life, you have witnessed amazing change and innovation. The past one-hundred years have brought the inventions of the car, television, air conditioning, and microwave ovens. What is the most extraordinary change you have seen in your lifetime?” Without missing a beat, she replied, “That a teenager can say “suck” in front of their parents and get away with it!” While cultural norms may have changed with the times, being considerate of fellow human beings is not an antiquated notion; its time hasn't ended. Quite the opposite is true. In our world today, kindness and politeness are needed more than ever.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
The elegance of etiquette is a timeless expression of class which transcends social status, demographics, educational level, and ethnicity. Good manners say more about you than the person who is on the receiving end.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
Take the initiative with deliberate steps to be a polite person:1.
— Say please when you are making a request or asking for help. 2.
Take the initiative with deliberate steps to be a polite person:1.	Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze.2.	Reciprocate a thoughtful word or a good deed in kind.3.	Say "excuse me" when you bump into someone, unintentionally violate someone’s space, or need to get someone’s attention.4.	Apologize when you’ve made a mistake or are in the wrong.5.	Live by the "Golden Rule" and treat others the way you would like to be treated.6.	When dining at home or in a restaurant, wait until everyone is served before eating your meal.7.	Acknowledge notable events like birthdays, weddings, and anniversaries.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
Take the initiative with deliberate steps to be a polite person:1.	Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze.2.	Reciprocate a thoughtful word or a good deed in kind.3.	Say "excuse me" when you bump into someone, unintentionally violate someone’s space, or need to get someone’s attention.4.	Apologize when you’ve made a mistake or are in the wrong.5.	Live by the "Golden Rule" and treat others the way you would like to be treated.6.	When dining at home or in a restaurant, wait until everyone is served before eating your meal.7.	Acknowledge notable events like birthdays, weddings, and anniversaries.8.	Reply to invitations, regardless of whether you will be able to attend. 9.	Acknowledge and show gratitude for gifts and gestures of hospitality.10.	Put things back where they belong. Leave the world a better place than how you found it.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
All manners are not created equal and can conjure different interpretations based on the environment in which they are being displayed.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
What is appropriate in one setting may be entirely inappropriate in another. How you behave at a football game is different than how you behave at your sister’s wedding. How you interact with your closest friends will be different than how you engage with your boss.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
For more than forty years, Judith Martin has inspired the world with advice on etiquette excellence, proper behavior, and codes of conduct through her critically acclaimed newspaper column, “Miss Manners.” In an interview for her book, Miss Manners Minds Your Business, Mrs. Martin reminds us that “When you go to work, you want a degree of professionalism which does not involve hearing about all of the sordid details of a person’s love life. We are not necessarily all friends, but have a job that needs to be done. A work friend is not always a social friend. One requires distance while the other embraces intimacy.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
As our society has become more casual, the line between a person’s personal life and professional life has become blurred, especially with the advent of social media. Personal information, your manners (or lack thereof), opinions, and pictures of your private life are available for all the world to see. HR directors, recruiters, and potential employers will often ascertain a person’s manners and moral compass from their online presence.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
ASK YOURSELF: Are you presenting yourself in the best of all lights, online and off, and demonstrating the dignity of good manners? Make sure of it! If not, it may come back to haunt you.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
How a person treats wait staff speaks volumes about their character and values. If they misbehave in this scenario, you can likely predict how they will react when cut off in traffic, when their luggage is lost, or when life doesn’t go their way. It is also an indicator to CEOs and hiring managers as to whether a person is a viable candidate for being a considerate team player.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
Ernest Hemingway was a champion of the common man. He once said, “There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man. True nobility is being superior to your former self.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
It is unimpressive to not hold a door open for the next person coming through. After a satisfying workout at my gym, I was walking behind a man who was exiting at the same time. He was only about two feet in front of me. As he walked through the door, he let it close behind him, almost hitting me in the face. Was he being intentionally rude? Was he preoccupied and focused on other things? No matter whether an offender is being a jerk intentionally, or is simply oblivious to how his behavior is affecting others, rude behavior instantly makes a negative impression. Be aware!
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
It is unimpressive to interrupt another person while they are talking. Interrupting someone in mid-sentence demonstrates that your focus is on yourself, not the person talking. I had a friend who used a humorous retort whenever someone would interrupt him. He would graciously, albeit sarcastically, say, “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to speak while you were interrupting.” It always got a laugh, yet he was cleverly letting the intruder know of his infraction without being too confrontational.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
It is unimpressive to speaking rudely to others. Often, all we need to do to ensure that we do not launch into a rude remark is to pause . . . breathe . . . and smile to ourselves before speaking.And when people are rude to you, just remember that they are revealing who they are, not who you are. Don’t take it personally. Sometimes being silent is your best response.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
I am a very lucky lady that my life partner, Daniel, is a true-blue Southern gentleman. Watching him in action not only earns my love and respect, but it also strengthens his countenance and bolsters his reputation as a man. As a health care provider, he treats numerous patients who are elderly or in pain. Daniel has made it a customary ritual while people are in his care to help them with their coats, provide a stabilizing arm, carry the ladies’ purses, and even walk patients out to their cars. While this kindness provides extraordinary customer service, it also demonstrates that small acts of chivalry can make a significant impact on one’s reputation, first impression, and overall human-beingness.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
A man worth his salt will treat a lady like a lady and make the effort to be a gentleman. While independent women are fully capable of being self-reliant, the majority whom I know appreciate being treated with respect, consideration, and chivalry. For the women who yearn for the old-fashioned, good-hearted, chivalrous guy, I promise, they do exist.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
It is unimpressive to not return what’s been borrowed. Whether you have borrowed money, folding chairs, yard tools, or a popular book, always make sure you return to another person what is rightfully theirs. Lending it to you in the first place was a gift of trust and assistance. Being slow to give back in return may be considered rude.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
While you will certainly attract more bees with honey, there are times when being nice can backfire. Take it from a naturally kind person, being a “bitch” has its time and place. There will be times when you must engage with mean, rude, and inconsiderate people.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
Being Nice Has Its Limitations. While you will certainly attract more bees with honey, there are times when being nice can backfire. Take it from a naturally kind person, being a “bitch” has its time and place. There will be times when you must engage with mean, rude, and inconsiderate people.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
4 Times to Get Tough . . .1.	Self-Respect—You don’t have to take everything on the chin and lose the respect of yourself and others in the process. Don’t be a doormat or a pushover by allowing people to disrespect or run over you. Stand firm in your beliefs and values.2.	Self-Preservation—Understand and set boundaries. Decide what is and what is not acceptable in how people treat you. Claim your power to live life on your terms and not at the whims of others’ unreasonable requests and demands. 3.	Protecting others—If you are a parent of a child or a caretaker of the elderly or disabled, it is your moral duty to defend them to the end. 4.	Self-Defense—Have you ever felt threatened, unsafe, or abused because of another’s behavior? Assert yourself and do whatever is necessary to ensure your safety. Being kind DOES NOT mean you should excuse such behavior.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
Some people not only burn their bridges, but they also torch the town! With all their deeds of drama and destruction, they leave behind an aftermath of distrust, disrespect, and disappointment. And for what? This behavior creates immeasurable suffering in all directions. It ruins reputations and business deals, shatters lives—and closes doors which can never be re-opened. These repercussions can be prevented or avoided by simply BEING NICE.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
Kindness is a powerful bridge builder which unifies teams, bonds friends, supports loved ones, and spreads goodwill. Tending to your bridges will fortify your relationships in such way that you will keep your invitations coming and your options open for future opportunities.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
Whoever came up with the idea that "nice guys finish last" must have been either very jaded or downright malicious. Why would a caring, emotionally healthy human being ever think that being “un-nice” is a virtue? Anyone who wants to get ahead in life and have quality outcomes needs to understand that kindness is a strength. You will move forward faster by making friends rather than foes.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
17 Ways to Just Be Nice“No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.” ―Aesop1.	Be sincere.2.	Be altruistic.3.	Practice patience.4.	Inquire and engage.5.	Keep your promises.6.	Offer help to others.7.	Acknowledge others.8.	Control your behavior.9.	Be situationally aware.10.	Be polite and courteous.11.	Use considerate manners.12.	Greet people with a smile. 13.	Practice random acts of kindness.14.	Show respect for yourself and others.15.	Be complimentary and look for positives.16.	Walk in another’s shoes to understand their needs.17.	Share of yourself without expecting anything in return.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
When it comes to meeting new people, playing well with others, and connecting on deeper levels, there are inherent gaps which can be closed only by being brave. When is bravery needed?
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
It’s not bravery unless you are doing something which causes you to feel afraid. Unless there is some degree of fear or apprehension involved, bravery is not even needed.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
Being brave requires taking deliberate action and doing something new that stretches you beyond your comfort zone.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
Any time you put yourself on the line, you risk (and maybe fear) failing, falling, being embarrassed, or looking stupid—none of which are comfortable.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
If being brave were easy, more people would be.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
Being brave is not for the light-hearted. Bravery takes fortitude—the very act of bravery prevents anyone from knowing you were ever afraid in the first place.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
Stepping out and stepping up can be an intimidating experience, especially in social situations where the outcomes are unpredictable and uncertain. Have you ever been reluctant to . . . •	Say "no?"•	Request help?•	Ask for a raise?•	Stand up to a bully?•	Talk about tough topics?•	Confront a friend or spouse?•	Speak up and share your opinion?•	Begin a conversation with a stranger?•	Deliver a presentation or speak in public?•	Talk about the “white elephant” in the room?•	Befriend people who are much different than you?•	Make sales calls because you don’t want to be rejected?•	Approach a new group of people at a networking event?•	Go to an event by yourself where you did not know anyone?
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
Stepping out and stepping up can be an intimidating experience, especially in social situations where the outcomes are unpredictable and uncertain. Have you ever been reluctant to . . . •	Say "no?"•	Request help?•	Ask for a raise?•	Stand up to a bully?•	Talk about tough topics?•	Confront a friend or spouse?•	Speak up and share your opinion?•	Begin a conversation with a stranger?•	Deliver a presentation or speak in public?•	Talk about the “white elephant” in the room?•	Befriend people who are much different than you?•	Make sales calls because you don’t want to be rejected?•	Approach a new group of people at a networking event?•	Go to an event by yourself where you did not know anyone?Each of these scenarios can strike fear in the hearts of many because each involves risk and potential discomfort. Life holds endless circumstances with a broad and diverse range of challenge or conflict that require you to be brave.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
What is easy for one person may be terrifying for another. Not all people have developed an unshakable confidence to kick butt and conquer. How can meek and quiet wallflowers, both women and men, join the ranks of the risk takers and event shakers? The first step is to ask yourself how you may be feeling stuck and then get moving.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
If you like the relationship results you have been getting and don’t see any need for improvement, your status quo may actually be your sweet spot for comfort and contentment. That is a wonderful place to be.However, if you are like most of us, staying stuck in your status quo may prevent you from striving, thriving, and growing in your relationship possibilities.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
I was once hired by an organization to deliver a workshop on networking. The goal was to provide their engineers with tools and strategies for expanding their circles of influence—to foster innovation, collaboration, and teambuilding. One of the engineers raised her hand in the middle of the program and bluntly said, “I’m happy with the people in my life and don’t care to add any more.” I respect and appreciate her position and have sometimes felt the same way.But, as long as we are alive, we will meet, greet, and interact with new people. Even if we are not inviting them into our personal lives, being socially brave will open new doors which may have remained closed otherwise.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
Fear is the number one reason why people do not take action. The divine irony is that most of the fears we experience are self-generated and born out of our own imaginings, hence the acronym False Evidence Appearing Real.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
Every one of us, at some time or another, has allowed fear to prevent us from living our best possible life. The first step in conquering our fears is to identify and confront them. Among the most common are:•	Failure•	Success•	Being rejected•	Looking stupid•	Financial insecurity•	Falling on your face•	Being vulnerable•	Appearing weak or unhealthy•	Exposing your secrets•	Being alone or unloved•	Upsetting the status quo•	Disappointing others
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
To cultivate bravery and courage, ground yourself in your character values:Building a solid foundation of integrity and character will fortify your confidence to face down fears and take bold action.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
To cultivate bravery and courage, take a deep breath & relax:When you feel fear, your body tenses up and your thoughts lead you down an anxiety-ridden path. Stop, breathe, relax.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
To cultivate bravery and courage, interview brave people and learn their secrets.Whom do you know that displays courage and confidence? Ask them for their best practices, mimic their actions, follow their steps, utilize their methods. Ask if they will mentor you.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
To cultivate bravery and courage, borrow courage.There is inspiration all around you in the form of people who are living your dreams, achieving similar goals, and already succeeding. Knowing that something can be done is often half the battle. Most successful people find great reward in helping others reach for goals.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
To cultivate bravery and courage, avoid the bystander effect.Rather than standing on the sidelines watching other people achieve their goals, jump in with both feet and get involved.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
To cultivate bravery and courage, get involved in a cause you are passionate about.Serving a vision bigger than yourself changes your focus from self-doubt to whatever action is necessary for the vision to succeed. “When in doubt, take it out.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
To cultivate bravery and courage, change your attitude toward failure. Many successful people will tell you that if you aren’t failing, you aren’t trying—that failure is an essential precursor to achieving worthwhile endeavors. Failing (no matter how hard) is one of life’s best teachers for winning the next time.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
To cultivate bravery and courage, start small. Taking small, consistent steps for calculated risks will help you test your footing. Once you begin enjoying mini-victories, you will be able to build upon your small successes to escalate momentum and strengthen your courage to take bigger ones.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
To cultivate bravery and courage, build upon your strengths and talents. What are you good at? What makes you feel confident and personally powerful? Your competencies will ground you and build your strength.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
To cultivate bravery and courage, try something new for the first time. Take a chance. Stretch beyond your familiar limits by taking risks that move you out of your old mindset and into a new perspective. Once accomplished, trying something new bolsters your confidence and boosts your ability to be brave.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
Palm Reading 101•	Palm Up— Conveys openness, service, humility, and sympathy.•	Palm Down—Demonstrates authority, superiority, and control.•	Palm Vertical—Shows you are meeting on equal terms with a mutually respectful greeting.•	Palm Wet, Cold, or Clammy—Ick! The "dead fish" is creepy. Make your hands warm and dry before reaching out to touch someone, please! It can also be conveyed as being nervous or over-excited.•	Palm Perfect—This is my favorite. Better known as the "hand hug." While you are shaking hands with your right hand, place your left hand on top, wrapping both people in warmth and trust. This two-handed shake illustrates affection, caring, or concern, especially when you then reach up to grasp their arm or shoulder.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
High fives and fist bumps have become the popular alternatives to traditional handshakes, especially among the younger generations. As a new social norm, they are used as a greeting, an approval, an acknowledgement, a celebration, and a gesture of understanding. High fives and fist bumps are also viewed as a healthier alternative to traditional handshakes because they don’t spread germs.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
Considerations & Exceptions for Impressive Handshakes•	Be mindful of a person’s age; be tender with arthritic hands. In that case, a loose and gentler handshake is a gesture of sensitivity and compassion.•	Show interest; even if your right hand is full, offer your left hand. •	Demonstrate respect when you are caught in an introduction while seated; try to stand. •	 Be instinctive about when to allow the length of your handshake to linger to express unity, connection, or sympathy.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
All hugs are not created equal. Some people are naturally gifted in showering others with warmth and affection. They can hug with such a sincere intention it transcends a handshake. Their hugs feel genuine, non-threatening, and are emotionally consistent with the relationship they share with the "hugee.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
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— Susan C. Young, The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
Brian is a deeply compassionate man who was sad to learn that his work colleague, Tom, had lost his 17-year-old daughter to a drug overdose. When Tom returned to work weeks later, Brian approached him and said, “Man, I am so sorry. There are no words to express my condolences.“Brian reached out to hug Tom. At first, he was rigid and on guard, but with Brian’s genuine embrace, he felt Tom release into his safety. Tom had been so incredibly strong for his wife and family that Brian’s powerful hug allowed him to surrender into another man’s strength. It was a memorable and powerful step towards healing. Sometimes a hug at the right time, even if spontaneous, can be the kindest thing you can do for another human being.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
Hugging is quite an intimate contact. Considering the studies done on proxemics we looked at earlier; when you get within two feet of another person you are inside their intimate space. There are some people who truly do not want you in their 'bubble' unless you are close friends or they’ve given you permission. Assuming familiarity incorrectly can destroy rapport, make a bad impression, and risk everything you have done well up to then.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
Look for all of the possible missteps in the following scenario. My friend Amy arrived at a consultation with her Hispanic business partner. The African American woman to whom they were delivering their presentation was a long-time friend of her partner’s. Her partner was greeted with a hug and Amy was greeted with a handshake. The meeting was a great success.As it came to a close, the two friends hugged. With enthusiastic affection, Amy went to hug the African American client. The woman took a step, turned her shoulder to block the hug, and looked at Amy with dismissive anger. It was almost a defensive move. Her partner, recognizing this, put her arm around Amy to soften the situation and make light of the inappropriate gesture. Everything turned out fine, but Amy was baffled by the barrier. She was confused by the woman’s reaction since their interaction had been cordial and positive. She wondered if she had been socially insensitive or culturally inappropriate. After much reflection, however, she realized that she had simply been too quick to assume familiarity. Thankfully, she earned and learned the lesson quickly to become more aware. Amy eventually earned the trust of her client and secured her valuable business.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
Physical touch is one of my primary love languages. For those of us who share this love language, touching is an endearing gesture of affection, appreciation, and connection. It is not intended to be inappropriate in any way when we hug you upon meeting, pat your back, or squeeze your arm. For us, it is an enthusiastic demonstration of friendship. However, there are many people who do NOT like to be touched—men or women. In spite of our good intentions, touching can make others feel awkward, offended, and in the worst-case scenario, violated. It is crucial to be vigilant and socially aware enough that you can read people’s cues to know when to pull back and contain yourself.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
Confession. Years ago, I was invited to a cocktail party for an Asian-American networking group. As I introduced myself to a Japanese businessman, I reached out and firmly shook his hand. Much to my embarrassment now, I automatically took my other hand and wrapped our hands in a “hand hug.” This is a common gesture of friendship in the South. As his wife approached, however, she appeared appalled and felt disrespected that I was touching her husband. Our cultural differences were marked. Despite this cultural mishap, I was able to redeem myself. We all moved past it and delighted in an interesting conversation. Physical touch is a touchy topic (pun intended), especially when various cultures are involved.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
Seek to make others feel comfortable by demonstrating respect for their individual needs as well as their cultural norms. Your consideration and heightened awareness will guide you well—and help you make a great first impression.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
Approachability. Being warm and inviting demonstrates comfort, care, and emotional safety all of which encourages engagement. Your openness says, “I’m happy to meet you and am glad you’re here.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
Handshakes, Hugs & Other Touching. Learning how to touch appropriately can elevate your presentation, demonstrate respect, and convey confidence.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
Orientation & Proximity. Be aware of the orientation between yourself and others so that you can be sensitive and responsive to their comfort zones.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
Smiling and Expressions of Emotion. A genuine smile is inviting, contagious, and encouraging. People do read a book by its cover and your expressions provide a glimpse for what they’ll find inside.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
Eye Contact. Direct eye contact is one of the best compliments you can give to another. You are subliminally telling them that you are listening, they matter, and that what they have to say is important.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
Energy & Aura. You release your own distinctive energy signature which naturally produces a physical presence. When you emit positive energy, thoughts, feelings, and vibrations, you attract more positives into your life.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Body Language: 8 Ways to Optimize Non-Verbal Communication for Positive Impact
Life rewards action. To get from where you are now to where you want to be requires forward movement and momentum. Although you may already know what it takes to bridge the gap, simply knowing what to do is not enough.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
Action is the key to creating the changes needed to propel you toward your chosen outcomes and help you achieve your relationship goals. How are you allocating your time, energy, and activities to ‘activate your awesome’ and contribute to making a positive first impression?
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
The Art of Action explores specific action steps you can take for personal and professional transformation. Start by taking the initiative to be kind, courageous, and polite.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
Become a ‘good finder’ and seek to acknowledge the best you see in others.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
Move beyond yourself to serve a greater purpose and vision. Learn to mix, mingle, and glow, thus helping others feel more comfortable, at ease, important, and connected.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
By being fully present and engaged you will maximize your moments to make every encounter count.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact
Being proactive and intentional will enable you to create a positive experience for yourself and others.
— Susan C. Young, The Art of Action: 8 Ways to Initiate & Activate Forward Momentum for Positive Impact