Lilly Path with Ifeoma Odisa UGWU

 

I’ll be honest with you there was a time I dreaded going to work, not because of the tasks, but because of the tension in the atmosphere. And sometimes, if I’m being real, I was part of the problem. I thought being competent was enough. I thought if I kept my head down and delivered, people would automatically enjoy working with me.

But I learned the hard way that being a pleasure to work with isn’t just about doing the job; it’s about who you are while doing it.

As a woman who’s stumbled, grown, and prayed her way through different seasons of work, I want to share what I’ve discovered or still discovering with you.

Here’s how to bring grace and excellence into your relationships, both professionally and socially.

1. Start with Respect and Kindness

Romans 12:10 says, “Be devoted to one another in love. Honour one another above yourselves.”
It sounds simple, but honouring people; whether they’re bosses, janitors, or colleagues changes everything. Greet people by name. Say “please” and “thank you.” Speak kindly even when stressed.

And avoid gossip. It’s poison. If you can’t say it in front of someone, don’t say it at all. Respect is the soil where trust grows.

 

2. Speak Life, Not Death

Your words matter. Proverbs 18:21 reminds us, “The tongue has the power of life and death.” When you communicate, choose words that build up rather than tear down. Instead of saying, “This is wrong,” try, “Here’s how we can make this better.”

When you correct with grace and speak with gentleness, people won’t just hear you, they’ll trust you.

 

3. Keep Your Word

Jesus said in Matthew 5:37, “Let your yes means yes and your no means no.” If you promise to deliver by Friday, do it. If you can’t, speak up early. Reliability makes you dependable, and dependable people are rare and precious in any workplace.

 

4. Be Flexible Like Water

Life will shake your plans, and work will test your patience. Projects change, bosses switch directions, and deadlines move. Don’t crumble or complain. Instead, lean into God for grace and say, “Lord, help me adapt.”

Your calm response to chaos can be a testimony of Christ in you.

 

5. Bring Light into the Room

Jesus calls us the light of the world (Matthew 5:14). So, when you walk into that office or classroom, carry joy. Smile. Celebrate small wins. Say, “Great job!” or “Thank you for helping me.”

You don’t need to fake happiness, but choose gratitude. It shifts the atmosphere, and people will associate your presence with peace.

 

6. Grow Emotional Wisdom

Proverbs 16:32 says, “Better a patient person than a warrior, one with self-control than one who takes a city.” Emotional intelligence is self-control in action. It’s learning when to speak and when to stay silent. It’s reading the room before cracking a joke.

Manage your emotions so they don’t manage you. And when others are hurting, show compassion, it’s what Jesus did.

 

7. Be Inclusive and Warm

We serve a God who leaves the ninety-nine for the one (Luke 15:4). In the same spirit, look out for the quiet person. Invite someone to out. Say hello to the shy or the new colleague. Small acts of inclusion can reflect God’s love in ways sermons can’t.

 

8. Set Boundaries, Stay Holy

Friendliness doesn’t mean familiarity. Know your limits. Avoid office politics and compromising situations. Carry yourself with dignity because you represent Christ wherever you go.

 

Why It Matters

Sis, skills will open doors, but character will keep them open. The women who thrive and bring glory to God are those who combine competence with kindness, confidence with humility, and strength with grace.

Ask yourself today: Am I the woman people love to work with, or the one they pray not to see in a meeting? If the answer stings, that’s okay. Grace is available for change.

So, start small. Pray before work. Speak kindly. Keep your word. And remember, the real goal is not just to succeed, but to reflect Christ in everything you do.

Because at the end of the day, the legacy you leave won’t just be your résumé, it will be the lives you touched with love and light.

 

Prayer

Lord Jesus, help me to walk in grace and wisdom at work and in every relationship. Teach me to speak life, act with kindness, and reflect Your love wherever I go. Amen.

Your Sister in Christ.