Let me tell you, when 3:30 rolls around at our house the chaos ensues. The kids come running into the house off the bus, throwing bags and shoes all over the place, asking for drinks and snacks, and the noise that comes from their tiny bodies is so loud I can't hear myself think.
One particular day, as the after-school-tornado was making it's way through our home, my 5-year-old began throwing a fit over something trivial and I snapped at her, saying that I was tired of the whining and didn't want to hear it anymore. She immediately stopped whining and said, "Mommy, you're not filling my bucket right now."
I took a minute to think about what she had said, and then asked her exactly what she meant by that. She said that at school they had learned when you say nice things and treat others nicely you fill their buckets up. Now I get it, she didn't mean an actual bucket. She meant an emotional bucket.
Funny how a small comment from a child can really make you step back and think about things in a different way. Do I do or say enough things to fill other's buckets? Who is filling my bucket? Do you go out of your way to be kind and supportive of those around you, regardless of your own opinions and beliefs? Do you make them feel special, loved, and important?
In thinking about this more, I've come to realize that I am more likely to fill someone else's bucket if mine is also full. When my bucket is empty and I have nothing left to give, I am not 100% and not able to give myself to other people. Are you surrounding yourself with people who fill your bucket?
This can also apply to your work life. If you manage people, are you making sure they feel appreciated and know that the work they are doing is important? If you're an employee, is your workplace making you feel appreciated? People always do more when they feel appreciated; and usually go above and beyond for the recognition of a job well done. A simple 'thank you' in either direction can increase work moral and respect.
Here are a few things you can do to fill the buckets of those around you.
1. Be kind in your words and actions to others.
2. Thank someone for something nice they have done for you.
3. Random acts of kindness.
4. Send a Thank You card.
5. Praise someone's work on a job well done.
6. Compliment someone.
7. Give a small gift "just because."
I hope that you will find a way to fill someone's bucket today and show them how much you appreciate them. This world could always use a little more kindness.
xoxo - sarah
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