“Familiarity breeds contempt.” – Socrates
Think about that quote. It is pretty human. Teens seek favor with strangers and marginalize their families who love them. A new friend seems to have more allure than an old friend. Winning a new prospect becomes a fixation rather than servicing your current customers.
When you become familiar and contempt replaces regard, it’s a statement more about you than anything else. It can arise from:
- Self-absorption: You can’t acknowledge value
- Ingratitude: You aren’t thankful
- Materialism: What people offer is more important than who they are
- Boredom: You are always looking for something more
- Stupidity: Burning bridges is a habit
There are more reasons for sure. Whatever they may be, it makes for bad business.
There are familiar people that have created your success. Parents, mentors, customers, vendors, spouses, employees, employers, and competitors are part of the world which works to drive you towards higher levels of success. In your familiarity, try a new business practice. Show gratitude and value those close to you rather than continually chase after greener pastures in other relationships. Take action and do something which shows you care and don’t take them for granted. In this season of Thanksgiving, they are, after all, what constitutes your present and future. Be kind and take care of the familiar. It holds the key to your opportunities. I would love to hear who you are grateful for that is familiar. Share your comments.
