We have 96 intervals of 15 minutes every day, meaning you have many opportunities to make a difference.  Each day this month, I’m giving you a 15-minute project idea. Pick your favorites to improve your day, yourself or your world. I promise you have time for this.

I think sometimes we confuse politeness for helpfulness. People often want to know the truth, not what you think they want to hear.  Give yourself and others the respect deserved.  Take time to invest in things that matter and will give you helpful benefits from your hard work.

Respect yourself; learn to say “no.” Sure you may be the perfect roller derby champion, but you’re finishing your master’s, working full-time and trying to get your three kids on track with their academics.  Guess what, you probably don’t have time to add something else to your schedule.  People appreciate an honest “no” over a polite “maybe” that never sees any results.  Learn to say no to many things, so you can say yes to the things that matter.

Respect the process; take time to read the directions.  I get it, everyone thinks they know everything about everything.  I’ve been trying something new lately, I’ve been reading the manuals, directions and information for my stuff, my programs and my communication.  Someone took time to make something to help me; I’m taking time to invest in learning about it.  Why not get the information straight from the experts.  Everyone will appreciate when you’ve invested time to do things the right way.

Tip! Sometimes you can fake it; but oftentimes you can’t.  Polite people will never tell you when you look like an idiot because you don’t know what you’re talking about (too bad, it would stop you from doing it again!) Don’t risk it–learn your stuff before you open your mouth.

Do yourself a hilarious favor and search “You Had One Job” on Google or Pinterest.  Hilarious (but might take more than 15 minutes to look through all of them)

Respect others; listen.  I am an interrupter.  I love to get my opinion out there and it’s hard for me to be quiet in a group setting.  I’ve taken to covering my mouth with my hands to make me a better listener (and bonus, it looks great too–real normal).  But, I’ve learned considerably from the others around me.  And I’ve noticed the more that I’m quiet, the more others are willing to talk, to share, to question and discover.  It’s made my job, my time and my relationships much more interesting.

Tip! Take time to listen to others.  And look them in the eye when you’re talking to them–remind them that they matter and you’re invested in the conversation.