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Putting Others First at Work: Practical Ideas Inspired by Eknath Easwaran

 

Eknath Easwaran, the spiritual teacher whose wisdom we've been exploring, saw putting others first as a core practice for reducing selfishness and discovering deep joy. He taught: "When we truly are putting others first, we cannot but feel at peace with ourselves." This isn't self-sacrifice that depletes you—it's skillful selflessness that builds harmony, attracts support, and transforms tense workplaces into supportive ones.In the workplace, this practice aligns with slowing down: by shifting focus from personal gain to others' needs, we calm the ego, act with clarity, and foster true teamwork.Here are some practical ideas to embody it daily:1. Listen Fully and ActivelyIn meetings or conversations, give undivided attention—without planning your response or checking your phone. Easwaran emphasized perceiving others' needs intuitively. Ask questions like "How can I support you on this?" This builds trust and often reveals ways to help.2. Offer Help Without Being AskedNotice when a colleague is overwhelmed and step in: "I see you're juggling a lot—can I take that task off your plate?" Even small acts, like sharing resources or covering a shift, embody selfless service. Easwaran noted that selfless work "attracts selfless help" in return.3. Celebrate Others' SuccessesGenuinely praise colleagues' wins—send a note, shout out in a meeting, or nominate them for recognition. This counters ego-driven competition and creates an uplifting culture.4. Make Decisions for the Greater GoodWhen choosing priorities, ask: "What benefits the team or company most?" Easwaran drew from the Bhagavad Gita: choose selfless goals and means, then release attachment to outcomes.5. Pair It with the MantramWhen irritation arises (e.g., someone takes credit or criticizes), silently repeat your mantram to dissolve resentment. This keeps you patient and kind, making selflessness sustainable.The benefits? Greater inner peace, stronger relationships, and often unexpected support—plus a more harmonious, productive workplace. As Easwaran said, selfless action bears fruit in our lives and spiritual growth.Start with one small act today. Which idea calls to you most?