Assume good intentions – retail edition

Written by Jim Chaput
After a 19-year career in financial services, Jim left a leadership position to focus on health and fitness. Jim is a Master Practitioner of Applied Movement Neurology and holds Certificates in Applied Functional Science and 3DMAPS from the Gray Institute. His passion is empowering people to help resolve the pain, tension and insomnia that prevents them from living well.

I previously wrote about assuming good intentions in relationships. The same advice applies to dealing with your customers.

It’s time to let go of another unpleasant memory. I went in to grab a drink at an underground station convenience store. When I got to the counter, the proprietor was annoyed that I hadn’t announced my presence. I was confused and then I thought about it. I’m supposed to announce I’m here so you can keep an eye on me? I have news for you, buddy. If I wanted to steal something, I would have walked out without coming to the counter.

Not sure he achieved his goal. I was not inclined to shop there again and I remember his surly behavior years later. I understand getting annoyed at people who steal from you. Does it make sense to get annoyed at customers who come to pay before you noticed them?

Have you taken your frustration out on people who haven’t earned it?

1 Comment

  1. Pat

    In the picture, it looks to me like that starfish is doomed.
    We can’t always assume good intentions , from the looks of that octopus.
    Be kind….Stay positive…Stay alive…. Stay alert.
    Keep your sense of humor.
    So many choices. 😁