When There's Hate, Think of Cake

Today is my birthday. Now, I'm old enough to remember when birthday greetings consisted of a phone call from your parents and siblings, a signed card from your co-workers, and maybe a little something in the mail from Grandma and Grandpa.

Now, in today's age of interconnectedness and social everything, Birthdays are shared with the world. Facebook wall posts come in from friends and family here and abroad. LinkedIn greetings pleasantly fill my inbox from business acquaintances. Phone calls, text messages, and BitMojis still arrive from family. And extra special, I'm greeted by the giggles of my daughters (and my conspiring wife) who had been trying desperately to surprise me with a handmade gift and homemade breakfast.

If you've spoken to me recently, you've probably heard how frustrated I've been in how Social Media seems to bring out the worst in us. Some have abused the medium to spread division, to bully, to hate. 

But, today I'm reminded how social media and electronic communications can bring us to together, to spread positivity, to build on ideas, to cultivate relationships, to dispense advice, to help someone out. 

People connecting with people positively.

That's really what it's about, right? Apply this to your professional life daily and you'll be headed down a good path. Share something of value with your customers. Dispense some advice that helps a stranger improve their situation. Listen. Say thank you.

Speaking of, THANK YOU for all the birthday greetings. Now, time for some cake.