Treat everyone as if they were the most important person in the world because that’s exactly how they see themselves. It’s a simple but profound shift in perspective that completely changes how you interact with people, both in business and in life.
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Table of Contents
Meaning
At its core, this is about radical empathy. It’s the understanding that every single person you meet is the main character in their own story.
Explanation
Let me tell you, this isn’t just fluffy advice. This is a strategic principle. When you truly internalize this, you stop seeing people as obstacles or stepping stones or even just colleagues. You start seeing them as, well, people. With their own goals, their own insecurities, their own massive internal world that you’re only ever seeing a tiny fraction of. The barista, the CEO, the intern—they all wake up thinking about their own problems and dreams. And when you engage with them from that place of recognition, the dynamic shifts. You listen better. You communicate more effectively. You build trust almost effortlessly. It’s the ultimate hack for influence, honestly.
Quote Summary
Reading Level55
Aesthetic Score86
Origin & Factcheck
This one comes straight from Brian Tracy’s 2001 book, Get Paid More and Promoted Faster. You’ll sometimes see similar sentiments floating around attributed to others, but this specific phrasing is Tracy’s, rooted in his work on success and personal achievement.
Attribution Summary
Author Bio
Brian Tracy, a prolific author gained global reputation because of his best seller book list such as Eat That Frog!, Goals!, and The Psychology of Selling, and created influential audio programs like The Psychology of Achievement. He is sought after guru for personal development and business performance. Brian Tracy International, coaches millions of professionals and corporates on sales, goal setting, leadership, and productivity.
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Where is this quotation located?
| Quotation | Treat everyone as if they were the most important person in the world, because they are—to themselves |
| Book Details | Publication Year/Date: 2002; ISBN: 978-1576751985; Last edition: 2002, Berrett-Koehler Publishers; Number of pages: 208. |
| Where is it? | Chapter: Human Relations; Approximate page from 2002 edition |
Context
It’s key to remember this was written in a book about career advancement. Tracy isn’t just preaching kindness for its own sake; he’s presenting this as a fundamental skill for anyone who wants to get ahead. He frames it as a practical tool for building the relationships that lead to opportunities.
Usage Examples
So how does this look in the real world? It’s in the small things.
- For a Manager: In your next one-on-one, don’t just talk about tasks. Ask a question that shows you see them as a whole person. “What part of this project are you most excited about?” or “What’s a challenge you’re facing that I can help clear for you?” It changes the entire conversation.
- In Sales or Client Services: Before you even start your pitch, take a genuine interest. Remember a detail from your last conversation. Ask about their business pressures. When people feel understood, they become more open to your ideas.
- For Anyone in a Team: Instead of just delegating, frame requests in a way that acknowledges the other person’s importance. “I really need your expertise on this,” or “Your perspective would be invaluable here.” It’s a game-changer.
To whom it appeals?
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Motivation Score90
Popularity Score87
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FAQ
Question: Isn’t this just being manipulative?
Answer: Only if you’re insincere. The goal isn’t to fake interest; it’s to genuinely cultivate it. The principle works because it’s based on a fundamental truth about human nature. When your intent is to truly connect and understand, it ceases to be a tactic and becomes a form of respect.
Question: How do you do this with someone you genuinely dislike or who is difficult?
Answer: This is the hard part, I know. You don’t have to like them. You just have to acknowledge their reality. They are the hero of their own story, even if they’re the villain in yours at the moment. Focusing on that can help you depersonalize the conflict and interact more professionally.
Question: Does this mean I have to say yes to everyone and be a pushover?
Answer: Absolutely not. Treating someone as important doesn’t mean you abdicate your own needs or boundaries. In fact, it often means the opposite—clear, respectful communication, even when saying no, is a way of honoring the importance of the relationship and the person.
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