“One would give generous alms if one had the eyes to see the beauty of a cupped receiving hand.” ~ Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Today, I’d like to talk to you about the dentist. Hmm…you say, “How does that relate to the cookie?”.
Today, I’d like to tell you about my dentist. And that does relate to the cookie!
What thoughts does visiting the dentist conjure up? Pain. Funny smells. Poking. Prodding. Drills. More pain…
When I think of the dentist, my first thought is always cookies! You see, whenever I visit the dentist, I know that when I finish I will get a great big, freshly-baked cookie. Does this seem strange? I used to think so. Now, I think it’s one of the smartest things this dentist does. Sitting in the lobby is a big plate of cookies. And not cookies from a box, but freshly-made cookies! Delicious! I always take one on my way out. A warm cookie leaves me with a smile as I head out the door…
You might think that cookies would go against everything that dentists stand for — adding more sugar to our mouths. Or maybe you think that the dentist sees this as a way to drum up new business — more sugar means more cavities!
Like a child picking something from the prize vault, these cookies are a way to give a little treat to everyone who passes through the office. A fireplace in the lobby, a sofa to sit on while you wait for your appointment, and cookies on the table. You might say I’m paying for these “luxuries”. And maybe I am. And maybe I’m not. I don’t think it matters. What matters is the gesture of feeling “at home”, the gesture of feeling that this isn’t just about poking at my teeth, the gesture of giving a little something back.
A plate of cookies…such a simple way to give to others.
What do you think I will remember more? The cookie they offer every time I visit, or if they told me I would be seeing a discount of $1 on all my future bills? I’ll remember the cookie. It’s more personal. I can connect more with the cookie, and what it represents.
How about you. Have you had “cookies” in your life? What are those small things you’ve received that really mean more than just what that item is?
This is also a reminder to us all. A reminder that it’s the little things we do for others that make huge differences. I challenge you today to go out and find some new way to make a small difference in someone’s life. In the shadows of life we face, be a light for others! YOU can make a difference!
oh lance I love this post!!! and could go on and on forever about my little things in that once your (our? my?) focus shifts and you view the entire world through the gratitude lens it’s amazing how the little things are everywhere huh?
have a great friday.
MizFit´s last blog post..It’s WORLD DIABETES DAY, People.
“A reminder that it’s the little things we do for others that make huge differences. “Absolutely!
It is so gratifying to have a positive impact in ones life.
Every waterfall starts with a drop! Thanks Lance!
Mark´s last blog post..Everday Fitness
I really thought that dentist give sweets because they want you to have a tooth ache again! Now I know. Thanks! Keep it up!
Wonderful! It’s a moment of human connection in an otherwise cool, impersonal business transaction. My dentist’s office uses a different method: they foster friendship-building conversation. We know about each others’ families, lives, what-have-you. It’s like visiting a friend’s home. A local construction materials business is the same: they make time and effort to get to know you, strike a friendly connection. These things are a far cry from the cashier who starts ringing the next sale before I even have my receipts jammed back into my purse. Making time. Such a simple, yet powerful thing to do…!
Julie´s last blog post..Been There, Done That
It is smart marketing! It’s also a way to help people look forward to a treat, much like a kid looks forward to a piece of candy for doing a good deed. I’ve actually never been to a dentist that made freshly baked cookies — what’s the name of your dentist? LOL.
Stephen Hopson´s last blog post..How Making an Irrational, Last-Minute Decision Can Change Your Life
How can I make a small difference today?? Great question! Smile at everyone and say hello and not even for one second be a pain in the ass to my wonderful husband, well the last one is a Big difference but well worth the try.
Thanks for the inspiration, Lance!
Jannie´s last blog post..Why Thursdays rule
One of my businesses is in the business of helping companies do just what you’ve described above, using gifts and gift programs. I still remember a glass jar of butterscotch candy that I got from a car dealer about 10 years ago — lousy car transaction, ultimately, but dangit I remember that candy! A small, repetitive, delightful thing is the most effective tool a business can use to cement a community of relationships. And it can go a long way to patch up a mistake.
Betsy Wuebker´s last blog post..STAND UP AND TRUST YOURSELF
@MizFit — Yes! The little things are everywhere — once we have that lens on — I love that thought — wearing the lens of giving/gratitude. It’s an awesome lens to look through! So, you’re talking ice cream today, I’m talking cookies — now there’s healthy!!!
@Mark — First MizFit, now you — you guys are full of great stuff (especially for so early in the morning!) — another great thought — every waterfall starts with a drop — wow! Perfect for this! Thank you Mark!
@Diana — That whole ulterior motive thing! Even if that was the case (I’m sure it’s not) — I’d still take the cookie — they are delicious!!
@Julie — That’s a great example Julie — thank you. And, that also reminds me of my dentist — the hygienist always asks about my family, what we’ve been up to, etc. — she really takes the time to know me, and does it sincerely. It all adds to the experience.
@Stephen — What I like about the dentist is the small size, and the personal touch. And the cookies are a part of that. And, yes — really smart marketing. For a while they also did chair massages one day a week after your appointment. I always scheduled my appointment for Mondays — the day I could not only get a cookie, but also a massage! That hasn’t happened for 3 or 4 years now…but it was great while it lasted! And, the cookies remain… I think they get them from a local bakery, but still…that works for me!
@Jannie — I’m laughing Jannie re: your comment about your husband. I could probably do well if I was less of a “pain in the ass” to my wife — even this morning — right after I wrote this — I veered in the wrong direction a bit…but I think she forgave me!! Smile big, Jannie, smile big…
@Betsy — These little things can hang on a long time can’t they — just like we remember mistakes, we also remember those little things that mean a lot. It’s a great way to keep customers coming back — even though there are dentists that are a little closer to our house, or they might be dentists that are cheaper — I am happy where I’m at (and it’s in big part to those cookies twice a year).…
Personal connections — one of the first things the experts teach you about networking. I’ve had people give me marketing books, that helped me in ways I never knew. Just by providing me with a small gesture — I will always remember who they are and how that little gesture helped.
Now, I try to pay it forward with my knowledge, products, “gifts” even if it’s forwarding a colleague an article that might be of interest to them. Every little bit helps! and when it comes in the form of a cookie, all the better!
Stacey Shipman´s last blog post..Getting Back to Your Senses
I’ll have to let this one stew for awhile. And just an FYI it completes ties in with what I am writing.… again.
Jamie Simmerman´s last blog post..Getting Down to Business: 2 Steps to Make Your Dreams Come True
Yes Lance, the little things that we do for others and others do for us is what life is all about. The big things usually carry a quid pro quo. Let me give you an instance. Just this evening, our neighbor rang me up and asked if I had enough eggs for the week end. She had gone to a local poultry farm and was about to buy in wholesale. I requested for a dozen and just five minutes ago, I discovered that she had done this with a few other neighbors as well, and all of us not only saved some money but also the trip. Just look at the thoughtfulness of the lady. The feeling that all of us got when we came to know that she had called us all individually and asked is indescribable.
rummuser´s last blog post..Health Check.
Lance,
My children’s orthodontist does this as well! Can you imagine children actually excited to go to the orthodontist? Bit they are! Because they know that when they are done, they are going to get a BIG, FRESH, WARM cookie on their way out the door with a big smile and reminder to brush when they are done eating it, which they will because they were so happy for their cookie.
And the ortho also sends them cute little e-mail jokes and fun reminders. The little things.…
The place is packed…and we NEVER have to wait. Service and caring.
In Business AND in life…we can ALL do that!
THanks for the reminder to focus on the little touches today. I will, I promise!
Wendi Kelly-Life’s Little Inspirations´s last blog post..Are you Planning for the Fog?
First, the thoughts you mentioned is what I think of when having to go to the dentist’s office “Pain. Funny smells. Poking. Prodding. Drills. More pain…”
This post reminds me of something I used to hear Oprah say often “Love is in the details”. Sometimes it is about the free prize and the sense of comfort. I’m currently brainstorming what sort of “cookie” I can offer the readers on my blog. What’s the free prize, the sense of detail, that readers will find meaningful, valuable, and powerful? The brainstorming continues…
Stacey / Create a Balance´s last blog post..21 Reasons to Schedule a Weekly Night Out for Yourself
Really good post, Lance. A dollar or a cookie — excellent point, very well drawn. LOVED it.
Writer Dad´s last blog post..Redbook… An Excerpt
What a nice post. It’s so easy to do little things for people. Let somebody go ahead of you in line. Holding the door open for people. Smiling! Just the simple act of acknowledging someone’s presence and smiling at them can make their day brighter.
Natalia Burleson´s last blog post..Tis the season to be self destructive, Fa La La La La, La La La La
Okay, Lance, you are in my brain today. I’ve been forgetting all week to call my dentist and make an appointment for a cleaning. Your dentist sounds a lot like mine, except he doesn’t have cookies. But he is very nice and friendly, and always remembers me no matter how long since I’ve been in. He asks about my life, and really cares. Plus, his office is very homey, with the fireplace and the couches in the lobby– and it always smells so good (well, at least up front). I recommend my dentist to everyone, because he is that great (even without the cookies)!
I try to offer “cookies” to the employees in my office on pay day (since I have to hand out the checks in my department) by being nice, and listening to their chit chat. It’s not my favorite task, and I dread pay days, but they don’t deserve a negative experience, so I try to make it somewhat positive for them. There are too many of them to hand out actual cookies to everyone (over 100), but in the past I’ve had a dish of hershey’s kisses sitting out. I think I’ll revive that for the holiday season.
Thanks for the literal and figurative reminder!!
RooBabs´s last blog post..Don’t Put Sugar in Your Gas Tank
Aww how cute! Mmm love cookies. Really could go for a cookie right now. It’s those simple and homemade things that mean the most to us.
Sagan´s last blog post..The Tag Game: Share!
Lance, you have such a way with words. I’m glad you started writing. Although at the beginning of the post, I actually felt my teeth hurt.
It is the little things that make a difference, isn’t it! So often we focus on the big things and miss out on doing the little things that would make such a difference. Thanks for the reminder.
The little things that make such a difference to me are when my husband gives me a small kiss on the cheek or a small surprise back rub as I am sitting working on something.
What can I do today? The same for him. Off to take care of that now.…
Jennifer´s last blog post..A Source of Huge Frustration
He liked that.
You’re right. It’s the small things.
Jennifer´s last blog post..A Source of Huge Frustration
wow cookies at the dentist!!! I love little details and random acts of kindness:) I think I shall take up that challenge for today:) THANKS LANCE!
bobbi´s last blog post..TGIF
Hi Lance: My dentist beats your dentist … his office was decorated by a feng shui expert (think water fountains, bamboo, birds chirping over the loud speaker, scented candles). Then, while you’re waiting for the dentist, a masseuse gives you a head and neck massage
@Stacey Shipman — Personal connections, that is what it’s about, isn’t it. That’s what memorable. That’s what is lasting. That’s what is meaningful. It’s little things that show you care. Caring — in a rushed world — is just such a way to make that personal connection — and make a friend/customer/partner for a lifetime!
@Jamie — Why doesn’t that surprise me. Well, it is a bit of a surprise — it’s not Sunday! Now you’ve got me anticipating what is to come…
@Rummuser — What a wonderful gesture by your neighbor — and a very nice way to offer something to those around her. And look at the impression it left — I’m sure you feel a special connection with her — because of a small thing she did for you (and many others). Thank you for sharing that great example!
@Wendi — We have two kids that go to the orthodontist also — and NO cookies there! And to think, our dentist recommended this guy — does he not know the importance of that cookie?? You sound like you’ve got a great place to go Wendi, they’re doing it right! In many ways — and that’s why the place is full! And yet, not full of cranky people — but happy people — there’s a reason! Thanks for sharing that story!
@Stacey/Create A Balance — The pain…isn’t that what we usually think of with the dentist! I’m telling you Stacey — if your dentist puts out cookies, your whole outlook on going there changes instantly! Your plan with your site — what an awesome idea — very creative. I’m looking forward to what is to come! “Love is in the details” — wonderfully said — it’s in the little things, the things that must be done, the things that don’t have to done but are — that makes connections that last.
@Writer Dad — Thanks Sean — if this dentist does one thing right, it’s in how he treats his customers — and that makes all the difference in the world!
Love The Cookie
Hate The Dentist
meleah rebeccah´s last blog post..Friday Funnies: The Rude Customer
Whenever I replace our bathroom towels with fresh ones, I always fold back the corner of my husband’s hand towel, like they sometimes do in hotels. I always assumed he didn’t even notice, until one morning he came to me beaming, gave me a hug and told me how much he likes the way I fold his towel and how it makes him feel that I care: care enough to do this little gesture each and every time.
True story, I swear.
@Natalia — Easy things to do aren’t they Natalia! And yet…we (I) get caught up in me, and too often forget about them (everyone else) — little things make all the difference in the world!
@RooBabs — Sounds like the only thing you’re missing is the cookies — a pretty awesome place you’ve got to go to! And just think — he’s not only keeping you as a customer, but probably bringing in new patients just because of the recommendations of you and others. And a great point, RooBabs — “cookies” don’t have to be real cookies — they can be kind words, time, listening, etc. What a great way to give of yourself to those you work with — I’m sure they appreciate it very much. Mmmm… Hershey kisses!
@Sagan — I love cookies too! Simple and homemade — always a hit!
@Jennifer — Your teeth hurt Jennifer — maybe it’s time to go to the dentist! (oh, maybe that thought makes them hurt more!!) The little things — easy to do, but also easy to forget to do. It really is simple things (like that kiss on the cheek) — that can brighten your day. And your off…and your back…awww…that was very nice of you Jennifer — I’m sure your husband appreciated it very much! What a great way to act in the now!
@Bobbi — Cookies — it makes the dentist lots of fun (okay, maybe that’s a bit of an exaggeration!). You will do well today in your quest to do some random acts of kindness Bobbi — and may you touch many people with your thoughtfulness!
@Marelisa — Are you trying to start a fight Mare? No, my dentist is better than your dentist! So there!! Okay, okay — you do sound like you’ve got it pretty good. You know, my dentist used to offer chair massages on Monday’s — and I always made my appointments on that day. I’d see the dentist, get a massage, grab a cookie, and be on my way! Sadly, the massages stopped a couple of years ago. So, your dentist wins there! And maybe also with the ambiance. But we’ve still got the cookies! (do you detect some jealousy here — because I WANT those massages back…)!
@Meleah — I love the cookie too! And it makes the dentist much more bearable!!
@Vered — See, the little things that you think others might not even notice — don’t go unnoticed! Although, I wonder if I would notice…(my wife thinks I’m a bit unobservant — and I think she might be right!). True story…I’ll believe you!
Hi Lance. It’s true, the little things are BIG! I agree with Meleah; love cookies, hate the dentist. Although, I have to say that I was impressed with my new dentist a few years back. I’d had an appointment scheduled after surgery to remove some stitches and my mother passed away suddenly. I had to call their office to reschedule the appointment and of course I could hardly speak through the tears. They bought me a beautiful sympathy card and everyone in the office signed it. I was very touched.
Davina´s last blog post..Video — Preparation Inspires Self-Confidence
I just brought one of my girls for a dental appointment. She was real afraid before going but i insisted that she went for a check up since she had complained about a toothache. Unfortunately, there were no cookies or other incentives being offered by this clinic (even though it is supposed to be a kiddie friendly one). These little touches are important, I believe, to make a trip less terrifying. I think I’d like Marelisa’s dentist!!
Evelyn Lim´s last blog post..My Vision Board Tops Amazon’s Bestseller List?
I’m so sad that I can’t think of a cookie in recent memory! However, this does make me want to leave “cookies” for folks in my life. I especially like Vered’s simple take–something that’s everyday but still special.
Sara at On Simplicity´s last blog post..Handling Feedback Elegantly and Easily
I don’t care how many cookies the dentist offered me, I still hate going! Maybe if I didn’t have one fix the wrong tooth…
Jenny´s last blog post..A Short Story
I need to bring my dentist cookies instead of the other way around. My family has known my dentist since I was a little girl. I was going to marry his older brother but he didn’t wait for me to grow up darn him! But my dentist gives me a family discount even though we’re “like” family. It has really helped over the years. He’s a great guy. Maybe that’s what I’ll do Lance. Bring him cookies! Thanks for the idea!
Lance, I must confess my jealousy. I really dig the topics you choose and the positive spin you put on the simplest things… Anyway, back to the topic at hand.
Little things… like leaving my wife of 11 years a little note folded up in her laptop, or the sweet kiss my six year old girl gives me on the lips before bed every night, or holding the door for a challenged older woman on they way into the gas station — little gestures yet they all mean so much. Great post lance.
Jamie | WiredParentPad´s last blog post..Energy Drinks and Teens — What Every Parent Ought to Know
Awesome article Lance, I love how you’ve connected it to something so many people can relate and made a story out of it. Once again proves why your writing has such impact.
As to your question, for me it is a number of unexpected thank you notes and cards that people have sent me for things that I thought to be completely insignificant yet it impacted them. See how someone else appreciates things is really cool as well to start seeing more of it yourself.
Mike King´s last blog post..Maximum Productivity: Focus
It is definitely the little things that do it. And they demand such little effort. If we can get ourselves to say thank you to people more often, then after a while it becomes a habit. Touching people, really listening to them. You cannot buy these things. Making a personal gift instead of buying yet another thing from a shop.
Thanks for the post Lance.
Mindful Mimi´s last blog post..The personal life deeply lived always expands into truths beyond itself — Anais Nin
@Davina — So, we have a thing against that guy we call the dentist! What a nice thing for your dentist to do when your mother passed away — something they didn’t need to do, and you probably still would have went there — but it was that “right” thing to do. Thanks for sharing that Davina.
@Evelyn — Yes, little things like cookies, really go a long way toward helping us not only feel important, but also can help to ease fears we might have. Excellent point Evelyn, thanks. And, yes — Marelisa has the dentist of choice it seems…
@Sara — We need more “cookies” in our lives, don’t we Sara! Especially when we can’t think of any — I think you’ve got it right — go out and give our own! Because in giving, we really do get so much back ourselves.
@Jenny — Ouch! The wrong tooth — I guess that can leave a negative impression about the dentist!
@Laurie — Well, that’s an awesome idea Laurie — turn it around and take cookies to your dentist! If you do this, let me know how it goes!
@Jamie/WiredParentPad — Well, thank you very much for the compliment! The little things we do — they sure can make a difference can’t they. Great examples you’ve shared, and ones I can tell have touched you and those you love — thanks for sharing them here!
@Mike — Thanks Mike! Thank you notes — what a simple way to let someone know they are appreciated. Especially the hand-written ones. And it goes to show that what is insignificant to one person might be hugely important to another! Thanks for sharing that example Mike.
@Mindful Mimi — Thank you for stopping by Mimi. And for the reminder that it can be as simple as a “thank you” to make someone else feel appreciated. It’s not the things we buy that leave the biggest impact oftentimes, but the things we “do”.
Funny you mention the Dentist…I am going next week and I am not looking forward to the visit. Not that I expect anything bad, but the smell, sounds, poking, sharp objects scraping on my teeth…I could go on… And, no cookies after my cleaning
I love this post for the fact that we can all give out “cookies”. Maybe a smile to a frustrated cashier…or letting someone cut in our lane… There are so many things we can do, it’s just a matter of acting on them…
Caroline´s last blog post..Day 14 — Choose your life
Hi Lance,
I can certainly connect with cookies. Yum!
Jeremy
Jeremy Day´s last blog post..Building Community: A Month in the Making
@Caroline — Yes, for some reason the dentist does conjure up all sorts of negative thoughts — I’m pretty sure it’s the cookies that make me forget about these!! Yes, there are so many “cookies” we can always give out — I’m going to work on that!
@Jeremy — Yes, food is something that is easy to connect with — and then if it’s a dessert — even better! Makes going to the dentist almost fun!
Hi Lance!!
Wow you had me scratching my head on this one for a bit — a dentist offering cookies?!?!?
Okay, okay, I know there is a much bigger lesson in this and it is as you said it “feeling at home”, etc. It is indeed a beautiful feeling to feel welcomed and connected in some way no matter where we are. For those become the beautiful memories and experiences we will always remember and cherish. And as you say even if the doctor gave you a $10 discount it would not generate the feeling within you that that “cookie” generates.
I think for us all as bloggers there is a huge lesson here too, I know I love when someone sends me a personal message saying they appreciated the new visit to their site, and so on. And I try to do that too, because of the great feeling I get from it, I think it makes other feel welcome too and creates a more personal connection. So great post here as you got me thinking about all the experiences around us that do indeed create great feelings for us.
But as for the dentist, I still can’t agree with the cookies, perhaps they can give nice fresh fruit, a fresh fruit smoothie or something? I know, I know it spoils the “treat” idea our society is used to, but as a health professional I just can’t look past that — sorry to spoil the fun a little
P.S. Lance — as for your comments on my site, they are perhaps some of the best “cookies” I get weekly. So please do not ever feel bad about rambling on or anything like that, I really do appreciate and highly value your all of your input!!!!
Evita´s last blog post..Movie Review: Bill Maher’s Religulous
I think what you’re dentist is doing is brilliant! My family and I are HUGE believers in making a difference in the lives of others. I enjoy reading your words and look forward to reading much more!
Tabitha´s last blog post..A New Do
I am new to your sight from Caroline at The Zen In You. Very impressive. Really love this post! I too have a wonderful dentist who serves coffee and muffins, has cool music going in the background and has an office that is like an art museum with cool art and “coffee table” books to dream through. In fact, I spoke of her in this way just last week. About how cared for her patients feel and how she treats everyone as if they are her only patient for the day. I agree that we should keep our own allotment of “cookies” with us at all times and have them in reserve for those we come into contact with every day. A very nice post, will look forward to reading more. Also see some familiar blogs that I like on your blog roll. I publish a feature on Monday’s called Three Sites To See. I am going to feature your site this Monday, I love it that much!! Thanks!
Ha! I’ve got a dentist appointment in 2 days.
My chiropractor has a plate of biscuits with tea-making things, and I pick one up now and then. At Christmas they get a few Christmas goodies out, like mince pies and shortbreads (which we do here despite it being summer). I don’t think it has meant that much to me — just something to eat!
My dentist plays classical music and has entertaining conversations I have difficulty joining in with.
Robin´s last blog post..Bloggers’ Recording Project
Hi Lance — I saw the cookies and my first thought was, “those look yummy”, then I wondered what your post was going to be about. Good teaser. I agree, it’s those little things we do remember. Each summer we have a tour of new homes and I always remember the ones that have fresh cookies for all who enter. Plus, it makes the home smell so good.
Barbara Swafford´s last blog post..Casual Friday — The Floor Is Yours
@Evita — Being a guy who “tries” to eat healthy — the cookie concept does go against healthy living, I know… But it tastes sooo good! (although I understand what you’re saying). Fresh fruit or smoothie — that sounds pretty awesome too. I wonder how it would go over, in general? I like how you’ve related this back to how, as bloggers, we can give out our own virtual “cookies”, per se. What is it that we can do to make our visitor feel “great” — what a wonderful question to ask Evita! You do this! And, thank you, Evita — for your very generous comments…as you’ve said — comments that others leave — these are cookies being left here for us! They are indeed!
@Tabitha — I think the cookie idea is brilliant too — and probably partially because I just really love cookies (Evita, above is probably virtually scolding me right now!!)! Continue to make a difference for others Tabitha — that’s truly the “cookies” we can offer the world!
@Avtcoach — The atmosphere that we experience can really set the tone for our whole experience can’t it. Your dentist sounds like she is doing it right also — creating a place people want to visit. Thanks for stopping by and adding to the conversation!
@Robin — Have a grand time at the dentist Robin! There is something about having food out that draws people in. And maybe we think of it as just something to eat. But then, maybe there’s also there — that feeling that someone went out of their way to set out these “treats”. Maybe it creates a memory of what might be when you go next time…
@Barbara — They look very yummy, don’t they Barbara! I want one right now!! A small treat can go a long way toward a memorable experience. Food is always a good one, as it is something people are drawn to. But, it sure can be other little things, can’t it. And the more we can offer these little things up to others in our life, the more we can connect with them…
Hi again Lance — I had to throw in another comment as you gave me a good chuckle with your response…
…virtually scolding (that is too cute) but no in all seriousness, never, because I believe too strongly that we all have to live out this life experience in whatever way we choose, having whatever creations and experiences we choose. Although another’s choice may not be right for me, and perhaps may not serve the greater good, that still does not give me the right to judge it or that person in any way, shape or form. I can only hope to inspire and let people choose for themselves what they believe is right for them
Evita´s last blog post..Movie Review: Bill Maher’s Religulous
Okay, I want to visit your dentist.
I get floss from mine. Gee. 
I am always more likely to go back to the places that give away freebies or reward you in some (meaningful) way for being a good customer. It’s easy for businesses to do something (like give your dog biscuits when you’re driving through the espresso hut for coffee), but so few people take the effort to stand out that way. Instead they give you the dollar off coupon, or something that’s not really special in any way, or they do nothing at all.
Lindsay´s last blog post..How to Create Financial Independence with Your Writing (AKA Be a Dairy Farmer, Not a Cattle Rancher)
@Evita — That’s not much of a “virtual scolding” Evita!! You have said this so wonderfully, how we each live our life how we “see” as right. That there are difference doesn’t inherently make them wrong. You have a wonderful heart, not to judge. And you do inspire…you inspire me to think more about my actions, and are they in alignment with “me”. So, thank you, once again, for being you, and for expressing this wonderful thought here today!
@Lindsay — I’m chuckling…floss…it doesn’t seem fair does it!! Doing something out of the ordinary for the customer — isn’t that powerful. I think that sometimes places (or even us individually) get caught up in the “cost” of providing this “cookie” (whatever the “cookie” is) and forget to realize the great potential it offers. It’s helping to build a relationship, and in business this can be such an important way to keep customers coming back. I think we can all question, what are we doing that is “special” in some way.…
What a great thoughtful post! I came from AVT coach’s place
ImBeingHeldHostage´s last blog post..All I am Saying.…
Lance:
You are so right on with the “little things.” More Greatness from you!
Meribeth´s last blog post..It ain’t easy.…
Hey Lance…you are my cookie. You have been so kind to me along my entire journey. When I had changes in my life you were there. You went over and above the call of a person, friend, and fellow blogger. I cannot express to you what a good “cookie” you are.
This was a great post. I am one of those strange people that like the dentist. I like clean teeth before I eat my cookies. Ha.
@ImBeingHeldHostage — Glad you enjoyed it, and thanks for stopping by!
@Meribeth — Thanks Meribeth, you’re too kind to me! Enjoy those little things in your life…
@Cricket — Aww, Cricket — you’ve just made my day! Really, that is so nice of you to say. And, it’s for reasons like this that this is all so worth it. You are more than just a commenter here, you are a real friend. Thanks for being “you”. And…try not to have toooo much fun at the dentist!!
That dentist is one smart cookie (sorry, couldn’t resist).
I always put a little note in my son’s packed lunch and just assumed he ignored them or used them to wipe his mouth.
I went to parent’s evening recently and apparently he has used them in Show and Tell to illustrate how much his mummy loves him!
Thank goodness he’s not a teenager and I haven’t started writing anything inappropriate to get his attention!
Tara@Sticky Fingers´s last blog post..Today things are going to change
I came to your blog through a friend’s blog and I read the first few posts, but when I read this one it made me have one of those “Wow” moments. I had to stop and think about the little things in life that really mean something and how it’s so easy to take them for granted. This is a great blog and I hope you don’t mind if I continued to visit and leave a comment here and there. Take care and keep up the good work.
Tony´s last blog post..Let’s eat Korean food … and I promise not to make fun of your bulgogi
I like this idea…it’s different! So many people don’t like their dentist…or maybe not DISLIKE them, but dread going (at least I do, if it’s anything more than a cleaning). Maybe a cookie would help sweeten the experience a little bit.
Zandria´s last blog post..Random Friday, Ver. 74
@Tara — Smart cookie…funny!! The notes…that’s pretty awesome what you do — and, see, he appreciates them more than you realized!
@Tony — Little things that we take for granted — that’s it, isn’t it Tony! Visit and comment away — that’s what makes these posts really come to life — the many thoughtful comments!
@Zandria — Yes, it is differet…and (I think) pretty cool! I love a good cookie, and these are really good cookies! Sweetening the experience — this could be in any “experience” we have — what are the ways that the experience can be sweetened? Figure this out, and you make more customers for life…