The truth about common sense is that it is not common at all. During this year’s Super Bowl Game, I found myself discussing this topic on-and-off during the many commercial breaks.
What I personally find to be incredibly obvious does not appear to be acceptable behavior by a great number of others. It has taken me many years to come to terms with this understanding. Not everybody thinks, nor behaves, like me.
Here is a question for you: As an entrepreneur in the travel business, what behaviors do you list under the common sense umbrella? At the expense of sounding “cheeky,” this is a list you have to make on your own. The reason being that you and I probably do not sing from the same song sheet – and there lies the rub. Most people honestly believe they are playing their cards right. Just not according to me. In all probability, we have different pasts, upbringings, experiences and personal standards. I must make my list and you must make your list.
But whatever behaviors end up on your list, I urge you to address them appropriately with the understanding that they do not hurt or offend others. As my father in-law once told me, “The right for me to extend my arm stops where his nose begins.” Become accountable to your list.
See if this analogy makes sense to you.
When I am driving down Highway 95 in Delray Beach, Florida doing 75 mph the car in front of me who is driving at 55mph is a candidate of adult driving school and should have his/her license revoked. But when I am doing 75 mph and a car flies past me doing 85, that driver is a careless idiot and should be arrested. Although I am personally breaking the law by 5mph my speed is the right speed… according to me.
This helps to explain why common sense is not all that common. We are all playing our own tune – on our own musical instrument. And the name of that tune is of our making. But, regardless if you were rooting for the Chiefs or 49’ers, here are a few universal common sense reminders you can take to the bank:
- Answer the phone and then pretend you are glad I called.
- Call people back.
- Don’t bite off more than you can chew.
- Don’t bite the hand that feeds you. (Customers.)
- Remember applause is addictive.
- You can’t say “thank-you” too often.
- Never order a business lunch that does not require tools.
- Learn to say “no.”
- Learn to say “yes.”
Mike Marchev is always looking for a few more proactive travel professionals to join his Sales and Marketing Club. Send for details.
