Spiritual Bookshelf Episode 56: How to Be Someone Who Exceeds Expectations-Intentionality is respect.– Part 4

Hey everyone, welcome back to Spiritual Bookshelf.

Today, we’re diving into lessons nine through twelve — ideas that can truly change the way we treat people at work, at home, and in everyday life.

 Lesson 9: Being Intentional Is a Form of Respect

Sometimes people say, “Just be natural — don’t try too hard.”

But here’s the truth: in relationships, being intentional isn’t fake.

It’s actually one of the highest forms of respect.

When you take the time to understand someone, to notice their needs, or to make a small gesture of care, you’re saying: “You matter to me.”

Intentionality doesn’t mean pretending to be nice — it means paying attention.

Trust builds cooperation. Cooperation builds strong, lasting relationships.

Lesson 10: The Transformative Power of Praise

Have you ever met someone who just lights up a room? Someone whose presence makes everyone feel good? Chances are — that person understands the power of genuine praise.

Praise isn’t flattery. It’s the ability to see others — to notice their effort, their thoughtfulness, their courage.

When someone gives you sincere praise, your brain releases dopamine and oxytocin — the “feel good” chemicals that build trust and happiness.

You feel safe, valued, and encouraged.

And here’s something beautiful: praising others also makes you happier.

When you train your eyes to look for the good in people, your heart becomes softer, more grateful, and more generous.

Lesson 11: Rest Is a Prerequisite for Excellence

In a world that glorifies busyness, rest often feels like a luxury — or even a weakness.

But the truth is, rest isn’t the opposite of productivity.

Rest is productivity.

Because rest restores your body, resets your mind, and reconnects your emotions.

Think about it — how many times have you struggled with a problem for hours, only to find the solution while taking a shower or going for a walk?

That’s your brain recharging and reconnecting.

True productivity comes from balance — from learning when to move and when to pause.

Because only those who know how to rest have the energy to create, to care, and to keep going.

Lesson 12: Never Stop Growing — Being the Best Once Isn’t Enough

This final lesson really captures the spirit of Will Guidara’s message.

He says:“Being the best once doesn’t matter. What matters is staying curious and getting better every day.”

Winning once doesn’t make you successful — it simply gives you a starting point.

When we talk about “unreasonable hospitality,” we have to mention someone from Japan — Yoshiharu Hoshino, the CEO of Hoshino Resorts.

He’s known for bringing Japanese hospitality — Omotenashi — into the global spotlight, transforming traditional inns into unforgettable cultural experiences.

Hoshino often says:“The best hospitality doesn’t come from rules — it comes from care.”

And that perfectly describes Omotenashi. It’s about anticipating needs before they’re spoken, serving not because you have to, but because you truly want to make people happy. At Hoshino Resorts, employees aren’t just following checklists.

Hoshino also says,“Management isn’t about control — it’s about creating a culture of resonance.”

And like Will Guidara says,“Guests may not always tell you what they want, but they can always feel when you truly care.”

When we care deeply, notice others, and keep growing —we make the world just a little bit warmer.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe to Spiritual Bookshelf and share it with someone you’d love to care for — maybe a friend, a coworker, or someone who needs a little reminder that kindness still matters.

Thanks for listening — take care, and I’ll see you next time.