To be successful as a manager and employee, we must have learned certain values and characteristics. Kindness, compassion, and forgiveness are key factors in being successful in either of these roles. Being kind, compassionate, and forgiving can be misconceived as a sign of weakness. However, managers and employees that do not possess these inherited values, are folly in distinguishing what actions are beneficial to the individual and team needs. Scripture tells us, “Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, long-suffering; bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do" (Colossians 3:12-13, NKJV). As leaders and followers, we must exhibit good examples of what kindness, compassion and forgiveness, are in the workplace. As an employee, I have experienced these acts on many occasions.
10 years ago, I had a manager that embodied great levels of compassion. The work environment and the demand of work, required one to be steadfast in upholding the policies, as well as completing large quantities of daily assignments. The environment was very stressful for me, as well as my colleagues. However, my manager had the capability to connect with his staff, and create an environment for success. He always reminded us of his expectations of us, and provided feedback that enabled us to set expectations of ourselves. As an individual on the team, I would sometimes undergo disheartening periods, because I failed to reach my stated goals. Each month, at the team meetings, I was always held accountable for meeting my goals. My manager would take the time to meet with me, one on one, to provide feedback and development to help me accomplish my monthly goals. The crowning moment of each meeting always ended with him reminding me of my importance to the organization, and that I had a bright future a...