The Money Mentor: A 7-Day Plan To Financial HealthChikamu

Hone Your People Skills

We can always study more, obtain one more degree or certification, become a specialist in a new discipline, or make other attempts to increase our competency. Being skilled in whatever endeavor we pursue is a basic requirement if we want to succeed. 

In fact, King Solomon, the wisest king who ever lived, proclaimed, “If the ax is dull and its edge unsharpened, more strength is needed, but skill will bring success” (Ecclesiastes 10:10 NIV). Notwithstanding, on the verge of his coronation as king of Israel, he did not cite the need for “more skills” when God appeared to him in a dream and essentially offered him a blank check: “What do you want? Ask, and I will give it to you” (1 Kings 3: 5 NLT).

Solomon wasted no time in asking only for wisdom in interacting with the people he would govern. The lesson: practical skills may get you in the door, but good people skills are essential in moving you forward and often determine the extent of your financial rewards. 

Whether you are a teacher, brain surgeon, independent consultant, law enforcement officer, or homemaker, solid people skills will be one of the most empowering tools in your financial arsenal. 

Here is a short list of behaviors you would be wise to incorporate as part of your daily experience:

• Be friendly and approachable; speak to people.
• Be quick to serve others. 
• Be humble; humility tops the chart as the most admired character trait; pride and arrogance are the most detestable.
• Always make people feel valued and appreciated.
• Earn the right to give constructive criticism by consistently showing concern for another person’s well-being.
• Respect other people’s right to believe, act, or dress differently. If their behavior is ungodly, pray for them. Only God can change hearts and mindsets.

Just as God was pleased that Solomon asked for wisdom, He will be pleased when you ask Him to guide you in your interactions with others.

“Dear Lord, please help me develop good people skills so that I may communicate positively, peacefully, and productively. I desire to understand the concerns and needs of others and to fulfill your purpose for my life. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.”