By Zig Ziglar

My dad died during the Great Depression when I was five.  Six of us children were too young to work outside the home, but all of us did our part around the house.  Our economic survival was built around five milk cows and a large garden.  We sold the surplus milk and butter as well as many of the vegetables.

I was milking cows by the time I was eight years old and I can tell you from experience that cows don’t “give” milk—you have to fight for every drop!  I can also tell you that the way you treat the cow has a direct bearing on the quantity and the quality of the milk she produces.  If you beat her and treat her badly as you are preparing to milk her, two things will happen.  She will give less milk and the milk might not be usable, because when she is angry and upset the milk she produces is often bitter and useless.  In addition, she might retaliate and kick you.   I’m not suggesting that you need to “kiss” the cow, but I am encouraging you to speak kindly to her and stroke her a time or two to let her know you appreciate her efforts.  My mother loved her cows and expected her children to love them, too.  As a result, we got maximum production from our cows which gave us an extra bonus.  After keeping one for two or three years, we raised her milk production so much Mom could sell that cow for considerably more money than she paid for her.  For us that was a big plus.

Here’s the message.  Treat people kindly, gently, and with respect and consideration.  They will respond favorably and if they happen to be on your payroll they will work harder and be more productive.  On the other hand, if you abuse them, they will be unable to do their best.  Think about it.  Treat people like cows and I’ll SEE YOU AT THE TOP! 

Zig Ziglar is known as America’s motivator.   He is the author of 31 books .  Check out his new book, Born to Win.