When I was a child everyone told me that you should be kind to others.
“Always treat others with respect,” they said “and you’ll go a long way.”
When I first moved to Chicago, I remember doing a cabaret show that only had four people in the audience. It wasn’t for pay and it wasn’t glamorous - but it was a show. I was getting stage time and that was good enough for me.
In the back of the room was a comedian who was also on the lineup. He had a bad attitude and was talking loudly about how the show was a huge waste of time. He was rude to everyone in the room, including the host and bartender.
When it was my time to perform I was forced to call on that comic for assistance. He basically called my act stupid and reiterated how lame the show had been. My act had been ruined, just like everyone else who had gone onstage before me.
I’ve never forgotten the way that performer treated me that night. I’ve seen him do other shows since then but all I can think about is how disrespectful he was during that small show six years ago.
Luckily his career never amounted to anything, probably because he was a jerk to everyone he met. It just goes to show how important it is to treat everyone you meet with respect.
Actually - I’m totally kidding. That guy writes for SNL now. He’s a successful comic and has been featured on major TV shows and podcasts. He has a big following and is doing quite well.
The truth is, it doesn’t matter if you’re incredibly kind or an absolute jerk. You can treat people like dirt and still have a successful career. You might even end up being president!
That advice should actually read something like “Always treat others with respect because it’s the right thing to do.”
It may not mean you’re successful and it might not help you “go a long way” but in the end you’ll be glad you did.
The real question is: How do you want to be remembered?