Achieve a Big Response by Doing Something Little (Achievement Nudge)

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Last Updated on November 18, 2024 by Bill Truby

You’ve heard it. It’s the little things that make the biggest difference.

I was standing at the counter in a deli, paying for my food and waiting for my change. There was a sign taped to the cash register, hand-written words on a 3 x 5 card. The words were faded. It looked like it had been there for a long time. The girl about to hand me my change probably had completely forgotten about it.

I pointed to the sign and said, “Thank you.”

“For what?” She said.

“For you kind words,” I said, “you must have known I was coming.”

She looked very confused, so I explained. “You see, my name is Bill and I am rather short. Your sign says, ‘Small Bills are Greatly Appreciated.’” She handed me my change with a giggle.

It is true. It’s the small things that can have the greatest impact. It’s the little things that make big the biggest difference in virtually everything we do. The lit candle at the dinner table, the handwritten thank-you note to a deserving employee, the 10-cent gift from the multi-billion dollar airline company…all make a huge and positive impact. One small, genuine compliment can make a person’s entire day! It’s amazing, really.

This little Nudge is for you to do something little for those around you. During the next few days light that candle, say those words, give that gift, make that call, do that deed – any little thing you can think of for those who are most important to you. The good news is, when you do, you will feel just as warm as the recipient, maybe more so.

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This article is part of our ongoing Achievement Nudge series—short, witty, and often inspirational articles to spark your personal and professional growth. Explore more nudges on our blog, or sign up for our weekly Nudge and News email. Each edition includes an Achievement Nudge plus leadership, professional development, and personal growth videos and articles to keep you inspired and on track.

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