Show Your Love, Allendale

In many ways, a healthy relationship between a business and its community parallels that of a healthy relationship between two people. Both relationships rest on simple tenets such as respect, and both should be celebrated whenever possible.
When thinking about the connection you have built within Allendale, remember these 6 truths of a healthy relationship to keep Allendale feeling loved and appreciated.

1. Say, “Thank you.” People generally enjoy saying or doing nice things for others and tend to do it without expecting to be thanked for it. However, we all know how great it makes us feel when we are recognized for our efforts.
2. Show Respect. The strongest relationships are built on mutual respect and trust. However, getting to that point should ideally start within. Be willing to respect the views of your Allendale Community even though you may not entirely agree with them. Businesses, community members, and government officials have reasons for their views, and it is up to you to understand, or at least tolerate, them.
3. Open Your Eyes & Ears. This is probably some advice we all have received at least once in our lives. It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of life and to overlook the need for help that’s all around us. When we open our eyes and focus our minds on love and empathy, we see opportunities to make an impact in someone else’s life.
4. Admit Your Mistakes. Nobody is perfect and holding onto your pride will never do you any favors. We all will make mistakes and although we may disappoint, we all have the ability and willingness to forgive. Be quick to admit your mistakes and be genuine in asking for forgiveness.
5. “Little Things” Make Change Inevitable. Sometimes it is the smallest of gestures that can mean the world to someone. Focusing on the little things; the relationships, the people, the interactions, the handshakes, the socially distanced head-nods, and smiles, can show a person that they are indeed worth your time.
6. Be Patient. In any relationship, making things work means working through the occasional misunderstanding or frustration with one another. Life is not supposed to be simple; if it were, it would not be all that exciting. It is important that you take a step back and look at every challenge from the other’s point of view. Your patience and willingness to try to understand will be appreciated. Be known for your abundant patience and caring approach within the Allendale Area and beyond.

In this uncertain time, it is more important than ever to support our businesses and build our community. Community spirit and compassion are critical to making it through the current crisis. Although the need for physical distancing has made direct social interaction more difficult, there is still a great need for people to “come together” and support each other. Invest in your friendships, neighbors, and local businesses by intentionally applying or using your creative energy to think of new ways to accomplish goals 1-6 daily.

Supporting Business. Building Community. We’re All In!