Factor in extra time for serendipitous conversations with strangers.
A Cultural Exchange
As the stranger put on her hat, I smiled saying “Sehr hübsch!” And the stranger smiled back, happy with the compliment. “Vielen Dank,” she replied with a laugh.
“Are you going to the airport?” she added in English.” If so you’re on the wrong section of the train; you need to be in the rear carriages…”
Now we’d just spent a fabulous day exploring Munich then met friends for a final treat of German hospitality – great wine, beer and a Bavarian speciality – pork shank. We were running on a very tight schedule to make our connection and had forgotten that the airport train divided! We got to the flight check-in with just 10 minutes to spare and in my book that is too close for comfort. Fortunately as frequent fliers we had little luggage, all our documents to hand and armed with magic smiles and politeness we moved speedily through security.
What is your MO?
Travelling the globe as I do, I’m constantly reminded of how kind and helpful people are; as it is really thanks to the lady with the hat and to my ability to communicate with confidence that we made our return flight to UK. That chance chit chat guaranteed that we made our flight on time, it kind of stopped the clock…
People work with different time scales and methods, you also have generation differences. Our son, Kyle who was directing our plans for that day, works very much more up to the wire than us. Perhaps for him it is part of the fun and an adrenalin kick. For us, last minute it is verging on stressful and does not allow for the unforeseen. I wonder what your preferred modus operandi is. Whichever method suits you better, I wish you well on your travels through 2012. In the meantime..
Tips for a successful year
Here are three action points to consider:
- Allow regular time to savour the company of others,
- Schedule farewell meals, business buffets and sip something special with people whose company inspires you,
- And factor in extra time for serendipitous conversations with strangers. It could make all the difference…
Eilidh Milnes- pronounced “Ay-lee” – is known as ‘Captain Positive!’ She is a teacher turned motivational speaker, columnist and award winning author. She has two decades of training and coaching experience working with people from Aberdeen to Adelaide in multi-national companies. She is married with two children living overseas. She is available to speak worldwide. Useful links: @eilidhmilnes LinkedIn Facebook
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