I know it’s unpopular, but I judge people.
Those who pass the ‘Being Human Test (BHT)’ receive my utmost admiration and respect.
What is the BHT, you may wonder?
Ask yourself:
* Do you regard and respect those around you equally?
* Do you engage and behave similarly with people regardless of their class, position and status?
* Or do you reserve your best behaviour for those holding positions of authority and power in society while showing scant regard for those at the bottom of the hierarchy?
The answer to the three questions speaks a lot about you.
You pass the test if you reflect the same cordiality, warmth and respect for the support staff at your home and work as much as you show to those in positions of power and authority.
But is that common around us?
The answer is no.
We often find a disdainful approach toward house staff, peons and those at the lower rung, while our best behaviour is reflected when we engage with the top strata.
Why so?
Our attitude towards those at the bottom rung has an inherent bias. We follow an unwritten caste system, where caste is replaced by class, position, authority and economic status. No one tells us to do that; that’s our internal conditioning.
Only a few (you can count them on your fingers) buck this trend or pass the congeniality and courtesy test. Treasure moments with such people and enjoy being in their company. There’s so much to learn from them. They are endearing and inspirational.
Why are they in a minority? Why aren’t more people like them?
Human nature does not trigger the adoption of qualities and practices unless we are sure they will elevate our status, position and wealth. No data shows that following such behaviour will lead to the same.
So, what do we do? We follow a routine, unwittingly subscribing to a pecking order that’s more about titles than teamwork. We’re buttering up the higher-ups, laying it on thick, while the folks keeping the lights on and the floors clean get nothing but your autopilot nod.
Do You Pass the Being Human Test?
Imagine a world where the warmth of your greeting doesn’t fluctuate with the recipient’s social standing. Sounds revolutionary? That’s the essence of the Being Human Test. It’s not rocket science, just a simple reflection on whether you treat the CEO and the janitor with the same decency and respect.
The reality check? Most flunk this test without even realising there was an exam. We’ve been conditioned to navigate the workplace like a chessboard, where pieces are valued for their power, not their presence.
But here’s a thought: What if we flipped the script?
Why It’s Time to Buck the Trend
It’s easy to follow the age-old adage of kissing up and kicking down. But let’s face it: Nobody wins in the long run in that game.
The true champions, the ones who make an impact, are those rare gems who treat everyone with equal measures of respect and kindness. They’re the ones who understand that every cog in the machine is crucial.
Why are they in such short supply, you ask?
Because we’ve been taught to chase accolades, not authenticity, we’re wired to believe that success is measured by the weight of our wallets and the height of our towers, not the depth of our humanity.
The Gameplan for Change
It starts at the top. When leaders set the tone, showing that every role and every person is valued, it sends ripples through the workplace. But here’s the kicker: it doesn’t just stop with the big bosses. This is on us, every single one of us.
This isn’t about becoming a saint overnight or donning a cape of altruism. It’s about recognising that we’re all just people at the end of the day — people who appreciate a genuine smile, a heartfelt “How are you?” and the knowledge that we’re seen and respected, regardless of the name on our door or the size of our desk.
So, here’s your mission, should you accept it: Start passing the Being Human Test with flying colours. Begin with a smile, a nod, a genuine conversation. Recognise the humanity in everyone around you, from the boardroom to the breakroom.
It’s not just about workplaces. Do it everywhere you are. Make this a part of who you are and how you engage with others from your home, neighbourhood, park, school, college, community centre, or public square.
Together, we can redefine what it means to be truly human.
Are you ready to make a difference? Let’s start now.
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