6 Lessons Your Kindergartener is Teaching You

Little ones have a lot to teach us, if we’re willing to listen and learn. Here are six lessons your kindergartner is bringing home from the sandbox that you’d be smart to apply at the office:

Play Fair

This one is a big one, you guys. Too many bosses (yes, even good ones) break this rule way too often. Everyone is trying to get ahead in life, but taking someone’s idea and claiming it on your own is a sure path towards losing the trust, respect and following of your team. 

Lesson 1: Be a great leader and give credit where credit is due. 

Don't Hit People 

I know, I know – this one seems obvious. However, replace the word “hit” with “touch” and consider whether you need to reevaluate some of your actions. Everyone has a different level of tolerance for touch – and sometimes what you deem as acceptable is considered inappropriate by the receiving party.

Lesson 2: Do yourself (and others) a favor and keep your hands to yourself.

Put Things Back 

Nothing reeks of incompetence like a disorderly desk. If you want to be taken seriously at work, keep your desk tidy. Sure, you can have a drawer where you shove everything if you must – but at the very least, make sure your desk surface always looks clean and organized. And be absolutely certain where everything is located when asked.

Lesson 3: Follow mom’s advice and put “it” back where you found it – right away and in the right place.

Say Sorry 

Yes, I know – business is not personal. However, there is a right way and a wrong way to handle most situations. And because nobody is perfect, odds are that you aren’t always going to get it right. When you someone is on the receiving end of your harsh words or actions, quickly and empathically apologize. Whether they are upset or not, this gesture will go a long way toward smoothing things over and keeping negative office chatter at bay.

Lesson 4: Lead by example and say you’re sorry when you’ve hurt someone.

Listen

Remember when your grade school teacher used to say something like, “Clap once if you can hear me.”? They did so for good reason. We have so many things (noises, people, images) competing for our attention, that it’s hard to listen (really listen) when someone is speaking to/with us. However, one of the best ways to ingratiate yourself with others is to be a good listener.

Lesson 5: Put your phone away. Turn off notifications. Be 100% present and make others feel heard.

Stick Together

Nobody ever got anywhere alone. Think about it. Somebody, somewhere, helped you get to where you are now. Teachers, mentors, coworkers all supported you on this career path. Don’t isolate yourself now! Continue to lean on others for support and knowledge - and pay it forward by sharing your wisdom as well.

Lesson 6: Two is better than one. Link arms with those you trust and conquer life’s challenges together. And for heaven’s sake, look both ways when you cross the street.