Care. Care more than you need to, more often than expected, more completely than the other guy.
This quote is a powerful call to action, urging us to invest more deeply in everything we do – whether it’s our work, relationships, or personal pursuits. It suggests that genuine care and attention are not just about meeting the minimum requirements but going above and beyond.
When Godin says “Care more than you need to,” he means we should put extra effort into our tasks instead of just doing what is necessary. This could mean double-checking your work for errors, spending an extra few minutes helping a colleague understand a concept or simply putting more thought into how your actions affect others.
“More often than expected” implies consistency in showing care. It’s easy to be caring occasionally or when it suits us, but the real challenge lies in making it a habit – consistently being thoughtful and considerate even when no one expects it from us.
The final part of the quote “more completely than the other guy” suggests that we shouldn’t compare ourselves with others based on their level of effort or commitment but aim to outdo them by being even more caring and dedicated.
Applying this principle in today’s world can make significant differences both professionally and personally. In workplaces where employees feel cared for by their leaders, job satisfaction and productivity increase dramatically. Similarly, relationships become stronger when individuals feel valued and cared for consistently.
In terms of personal development, embracing this idea can help one cultivate empathy and kindness – traits that are essential for personal growth as well as building strong connections with others. By caring more deeply about our actions’ impacts on others around us – be they colleagues at work or loved ones at home – we not only improve those relationships but also grow as individuals who contribute positively to society.