Motivation Monday
Life Vest Inside has had the very good fortune of finding writers willing to share their Kindness Stories/Articles with us. One of our special recurring writers is David Jablinowitz, Op-Ed Editor at Jerusalem Post, who is famous for his “bus stories.”
80/20 Rule
The 80/20 Rule is a powerful concept which, when applied, can add great value to ourlives both personally and professionally.
In 1896 Vilfredo Pareto observed that 80% of the wealth in Italy was owned by 20% of the population. It was soon discovered that the concept of 80/20 was far reaching. By the numbers, it is shown that 80% of outcomes result from 20% of efforts. The important thing to understand is that in life certain activities which we do (20%) account for the majority (80%) of our happiness and outputs. The numbers are not always exact, but the concept is solid.
The 80/20 Rule has application in; business, relationships, health, possessions, and much more. Business examples abound! 20% of employees are responsible for 80% of a company’s output. Interesting that often the less productive employees get much of our attention and the more productive employees are often forgotten. In sales, 20% of the customers are responsible for 80% of the revenues. These are not hard core numbers but it is important that we support and acknowledge where our ‘production’ comes from.
Relationships have many examples of the 80/20 Rule. First, a majority (80%) of our pleasure comes from a small amount (20%) of our friends and acquaintances. Second, no relationship is perfect and when the majority of our interactions (80%) are positive, we have a good relationship. Unfortunately, some people are preoccupied with the small percentage which may not be perfect. Some people may be overly critical and unforgiving. Finally, for people to feel motivated and appreciated; praise and acknowledgement needs to be dominate (80%) versus criticism (20% or less).
Wellness/fitness is achieved with 20% exercise and 80% nutrition. A balanced and healthy diet/nutrition is achieved when 80% of the time you eat well. This allows for some room for food play (20% or less).
Americans are preoccupied with possessions. We have toys, tools and clothes. A simple inventory reveals that we wear and use less than 20% of our possessions about 80% of the time. Maybe it is time to ‘tidy’ up.
By an appreciation and application of the 80/20 Rule we can enjoy greater happiness, health and success.
~ Loren D. Lasher
Finding yourself inspired to share your kindness story/article? Please submit it HERE – you can share via text, audio or video. Our editor will look it over! You may see your writing in a future issue of The Daily Kind!
Kindness Quote
“A fellow who does things that count doesn’t usually stop to count them.”
Albert Einstein
Act of Kindness
Waiting to be seated at a busy restaurant? Offer to switch spots with the family or couple behind you. You’ll never remember the few extra minutes you waited to be seated, but you’ll always remember the smiles on their faces.
Positive Affirmation
I am kind-hearted and compassionate towards all beings.
