The caring attitude begins with the environment around us in the form of basic amenities, the traffic, transportation systems etc. The courtesies, politeness of the people, work ethics, culture of the people can not only make a world of difference to those who live in that city, but can also positively influence the perceptions of people around the world.\line \line

These then act as catalysts i n the overall progress and development of the community. A caring attitude is the prerequisite for success in any venture. It may be a government organisation, a public sector undertaking, a multinational company, a private enterprise, a practising profes sional, or even a common individual striving to make a mark in life.\line \line

Through a caring attitude, if one is able to make a positive difference to the everyday lives of fellow citizens and others, one would benefit not only by better social recognition and self esteem but also through tangible returns.

We are heavily dependent upon our family and friends for the smooth running of our lives, but our attitude towards them is the first to suffer when we are stressed. Says Rakshit Mahadevan, an executive in an MN C, "Actually, most of us give vent to frustration or anger directed at our boss on someone else, be it children or spouse."

Says Dhawan, "Our family means the world to us but they do not expect the world from us. Why can't we take time out and do someth ing for them." Apart from inculcating and reinforcing the caring attitudes within ourselves, projecting the same effectively to people at large is equally important.

Says Navneet Dhawan, who has researched and held workshops on the significance of caring attitudes, "Perhaps, it is the realisation of this fact that not only corporates, but also some of the government agencies and undertakings earlier synonymous with indifferent attitudes are now attempting to project a caring image through press releases, at least in Delhi. This marks a new beginning."

To be cared for is one of the basic emotional human needs, which unfortunately has become a premium commodity in this fiercely competitive world. Till recently, various advertisements focused primarily on tec hnological features of the products advertised. Now these technical features and excellence in product quality, commensurate with pricing, are considered minimum requirements. The manufacturer has to point they care for the customers. Take, for example, the Toyota Kirloskar advertisement where the makers focus on knowing you, the potential customer. In fact, Maruti had made available one toll-free telephone number to oblige stranded drivers in case of car trouble. Showrooms like Ebony offer free valet par king.

The attitude can be incorporated by people of all age groups in different walks of life. Says Navneet Dhawan, "I have already conducted such interactive sessions for twenty Rotary clubs in our city, 200 members of the Traffic Police ranging from con stables to DCPs, some staff members of PHDCCI, class XI students and teachers of DPS Mathura Road." Though the essence remains the same, the contents are customised accordingly. In case of class XI students, he encouraged them to double their efforts whil e preparing for their Boards and competitive exams. He said: "Care for the expectation of your teachers, parents and your own lives. These examinations will to a large extent determine the course of your destiny. The competition is not limited to securing a particular percentage but getting ahead of others so as to secure a seat in a prestigious institution."

But a behavioural change is also required amongst the faculty members. Teachers should adopt a positive approach. But that does not imply a laxity in the standards of discipline. Says 22-year-old Sameer Malhotra, "I will never forget how a teacher humiliated and caned me for cheating in a class test. I held a grudge against her throughout my student days. Only now do I realise that though I slogged for showing her down, her caning changed my life." He graduated from St Stephen's and has got through the London School of Economics.

Professionally, one is dependent on colleagues, customers, suppliers, shareholders, bosses, subordinates and others. These pe ople play a vital role in determining whether a person will survive in the profession or not. Keep the following pointers in mind.

Team work improves efficiency. Do not criticise a colleague for wrong-doing. Instead try helping him with his problem so that goodwill is generated and he gives in his best.

Accept responsibility and do a follow up: Many times, one shrugs of clients by directing them to another department. But the reputation of the company suffers if the work is not done or delayed. Try to f ind out the information required and get back to the person via e-mail, fax or calls.

Going beyond the call of duty ascertains success. Remember if a company starts down sizing, it is the people who shirk work and responsibility who are the first to be thrown out.

In fact, many of the Delhi Police personnel, controlling traffic and crime, have successfully inculcated the attitude. Bharat Petrolem and MTNL have instituted specific programmes to improve customer service. Even international understanding can be promoted by making the right product available at the right price to foreign tourists. So, invest in concerns.