One of my goals in relationships, communications, and everything else is to always bring value. Our world is filled with junk, poor communication, and things that take from people. I don’t want to be a taker; I want to be a giver.

I believe that there is an opportunity to bring value in every situation. Suppose I’m emailing someone to ask a question. In that case, I give them a lot of context about the question so they can answer without having to look something up or ask me a question to answer my question. If I’m talking to a friend, I try to ask what I can do to be helpful to them and let them know I appreciate them. At my son’s tee-ball game, I chat with the umpire, ask about her day, and show her some kindness (she deals with angry parents enough).

Bringing value doesn’t diminish me; it’s the opposite. Bringing value to someone else benefits me too. Taking that extra moment in crafting a great email or speaking to a stranger that looks down brings value to them and brightens my day.

Bringing value isn’t difficult either; it just takes a moment. One moment to be thoughtful. One moment to craft that communication to make the response easier. One moment to say thank you, leave a comment, forward an encouragement, text a friend, or hug someone. One small moment today can make a big difference.

What value will you create for someone else today?