In working with clients in real estate or people in general you come in contact with you need to be aware of
The Two Sides to Elephant Memory.
Now elephants as creatures are well known for their long memory in nature. They remember where long lost watering holes are, they remember where they were born, they remember their baby elephants and their spouses.
In life having elephant memory is "good" if you are the one dishing out compliments, hugs, random acts of kindness, love, smiles, etc. EVERYONE will remember YOU.
However, provide emotional pain to someone, ignore them, hurt them, disrespect them, and your life will be miserable relative to another for a long time. This is "bad."
Especially with women. Somehow, they just NEVER forget. Plus, they remind you about it all the time.
So be careful with everyone you interact with along the way. Those long term memory cells, that Elephant memory is soaking in what you are doing to them and how they "feel" about what you are doing and how you are behaving. This is why it is so important, best you can, to provide a positive and professional experience to everyone. Don't lose your cool. You are the one that people will remember with their long term memory as a joyful experience. Something they will want to experience over and over again. People will gravitate to you with your smiling elephant self. A secret to referrals. You may be a big lumbering being but are so sweet and gentle on the inside.
Now that you have this lesson down for today why do we all have cravings for some peanuts?
I can assure you that people remember everything you do wrong. Just ask my wife, she will tell you everything I have ever done.
Great advice......especially on the "women" comment!!!
I prefer to be "Unforgettable" in a good way. (...and remember, there is such a thing as false memories.) :)
Gary, That elephant memory can be a real pain in the rear end!!! People remember and want to be around/work with folks that make them feel good about themselves. I don't know if elephants do this or not but it is a good thing to strive for. Of course being genuine is a must. Even an elephant can tell a fake from a mile away.
Now pass the peanuts.
JL: Do the wives ever forget?
Lewis: So true with women. I do think they have longer memories than men. It might be the emotional tie to event, I don't know.
Ruthman Real Estate: Unforgettable in a good way is the way to be, no doubt about it.
BB: No fakes allowed. You are making me hungry.
Gary ~ I totally agree because I remember the good and the bad people experiences; avoiding the bad and looking forward to working with the good.
Now, what exactly did you mean by "Especially with women. Somehow, they just NEVER forget. Plus, they remind you about it all the time." ; )
Gary,
Sounds like good advice but I've got to tell you that I have no idea about elephants other than one once at the circus tried to suck the peanuts right from the bag when I was a kid:)
Giving up the grudges in our lives, is very good for ones soul.
Gary - I must say that men can remember too, especially my better half... oops did I say that. But in all honesty, folks remember more the wrong things than the right things. I love your elephant analogy. I'd prefer walnuts.
Gary, This made me laugh, especially your comment about "women" who never forget---I've got to tell you I've met a fair share of men who fit that as well :) We may not forget but if we forgive, it's a good thing :) Do we at least get a peanut picture??
Gary, OK, so now you've all made me hungry so I'm munching on almonds as I type this. It's interesting what people do remember. Yes, it very much depends on what you offer them, but our memory is very selective and people tend to remember what they wish of a situation all too often.
Gary - Wow I didn't know elephants were known for their memory. But I do know if you are nasty, mean or hurt someone - they will only remember those actions, and all the good things you did before that will be gone.
Gary,
I've always had a good memory, and I thank God for it! Not forgetting is OK...not forgiving is not OK! Thanks, Fran
GAry-Like the elephant, I sometimes need to tie a string around my finger/nose to help remind me. I write notes to myself so I won't forget. I keep dates on a calendar so I won't forget. As far as clients are concerned, I remember the good ones and can't help but remember the ones who were a pain in the butt. Good Post. Thanks for sharing.
An entire reputation can be wiped clean in one moment. Guards up! Thanks for another great encouraging post Gary!
You know the memory bank is so important, I can hear a song, that I use to sing at the top of my lungs 30 years later and remember every word. Wonder why the GOP picked the elephant for their symbol? LOL
Great points! What is that characteristic with women? So true...
You're right memory is a two-edged sword!
I did not know this about Elephants. Thank you for providing the insight.
Hey! I'm a woman and I can honestly say that....I resemble that remark...hee...hee. We may forgive, but we don't easily forget. I'm an elephant fan so thanks for posting this.
umm peanuts... It all comes back to the golden rule.
I try to surround myself with positive people so I don't have to worry about the negative stuff and I always try to give more than I get.
One day it will all even out.