Two Tiny Transformational Tactics

Doing these 2 simple things shifted my perspective

I’ve been intentional with two small actions over the past two weeks—things that, on the surface, seem like they’re not a big deal. But as with most “atomic habits”, to use James Clear’s language—their impact has been really meaningful.

1. Calling People by Name

2. Contributing to the Content I Consume

Both of these habits center around a common theme: intentional engagement with the world around me. They’ve forced me to move from passive consumption to active participation.

In short, they’ve helped me to be more present.

#ONE — The Power of a Name

Our lifestyles are supported by people whose jobs are to serve, assist, or provide something for us.

Wait staff, Uber drivers, cashiers, receptionists, customer support reps—the list is endless. And if we’re being honest, we often treat them as extensions of the service they provide rather than as actual human beings.

So, I started learning and using their names.

• Instead of, “Thanks, man.” — “Thanks for the ride, Alex.”

• Instead of, “I appreciate it.” — “I appreciate it, Marion.”

• Instead of, “Have a good rest of the day.” — “Jordan, have a great rest of your day.”

Here’s what i’ve noticed

• People light up. It’s an instant shift in their demeanor. Instead of feeling invisible or like they only exist to serve you, they feel seen.

• Interactions become more meaningful. The energy of an exchange changes when you acknowledge that someone is an actual human being.

• I developed a greater sense of presence. Remembering someone’s name requires paying attention—something I do far too little of in a distracted world.

Dale Carnegie famously said, “A person’s name is to that person, the sweetest sound in any language.”

It takes about 2 seconds to offer that sound & experience to people you interact with.

#TWO — Stop Consuming, Start Contributing

We scroll. We watch. We listen. We consume so much digital content. But most of the time, it’s passive.

So I set a rule for myself: If I consume content I appreciate, I have to engage in some way.

That means:

• If I read a great article, I share it.

• If I enjoy a video or post, I like or comment on it.

• If I learn from something, I thank the creator in some way.

Why does this matter?

• Creation thrives on contribution. The internet isn’t just a giant content dump—it’s an ecosystem. If we want good things to exist, we have to support them.

• It rewires how you consume. Instead of mindless scrolling, I’m more intentional about what I engage with.

• People deserve to know when their work matters. Every creator—big or small—benefits from feedback. Also, going back to the first point, these are actual humans creating the things you’re consuming. It’s extremely meaningful for both you and them when you recognize this. One comment, share, or “this was valuable” message can be the encouragement someone needs to keep creating things that matter.

Give it a Go

Both of these tactics have reinforced a fundamental truth: We are not passive observers—we are participants.

In a culture obsessed with individualism, we forget how much power we have to shape experiences—for ourselves and others—through small, intentional actions.

So here’s the challenge:

• Use people’s names. Even when it feels awkward at first. And I can almost guarantee you, it WILL feel awkward…which to me, is a good indicator for why it’s so needed.

• Engage with what impacts you. Don’t let valuable content pass by without contributing to it.

Small shifts. Massive impact. Try it for a week and see what happens.