Love at Work

In the words of Jimi Hendrix, “When the power of love overcomes the love of power, the world will know peace”. People usually don't want to talk about love outside their families and loving relationships. The topic is considered mushy, soft and feminine in nature. At work, it is better seen than heard  and considered more of an HR role. I wonder if this is  because people do not know what love really means. So what is love?  I don’t believe there is any one universal definition for love because it means different things to different people. One thing is certain, everyone of us wants to love and be loved. The Message gives a good description of what love is all about:

Love never gives up

Love cares more for others than self

Love doesn't want what it doesn't have

love doesn't strut,

Doesn't have a swelled head

Doesn't force itself on others,

Isn't always "me first,"

Doesn't fly off the handle,

Doesn't keep score of the faults of others,

Doesn't revel when others grovel

Takes pleasure in the flowering of truth,

Puts up with anything,

Trusts God Always

Always looks for the best,

Never looks back,
But keeps going ahead

You can imagine what our workplaces and relationships would look like in 2013, if we adhere to these precepts. One of my favorite quotes from Gandhi is," Be the change you want to see in the world". Love is a verb. It is an action. Words and intentions without actions are never enough. Love is what makes a difference.

What ways can you show love at work?