Helpers, Hinders, and Haters

Opinions are like yesterdays, if you’re alive – you have one.  Some people keep them private while others spread theirs around like Wilt Chamberlain at Woodstock. And while having and sharing opinions can be fine, the intent is what we need to examine when we hear them. We all know that not everyone in our lives is there to help even though there are lessons that can be learned from anything. I took the liberty of dividing our friends, family, and associates into three groups: Helpers, Hinderers, and Haters.

Note: Just because a person fits in one of these groups does not mean they treat everyone the same nor does it mean they have to remain in that group if they desire to change their behavior.

Helpers

These are the people that know what your goals, dreams, aspirations, likes, missions, or values are and use their words, actions, resources and influence to guide good things in your direction. You know those people who are always plugging someone in when an opportunity arises. These people are always good to keep around and you should make sure they know just how much you appreciate all they do.

Haters

Haters are those who actively make attempts to sabotage your success without valid reason. They purposely speak negatively or withhold information with the intention of distracting your focus and impeding your progress. Often, hating stems from jealousy, envy, greed, lust, pride, anger, and other sinful emotions that drive humans to behave maliciously. These people need help but since they usually do not acknowledge their disposition, help eludes them.

Hinderers

This is a strange group to be in since most people in this group don’t know they are in your way. In most cases, their impedances are non-malicious and semi-unintentional.  Hinderers figure what they do, or refrain from doing, is perfectly innocent since technically they are neither helping nor hating. Simple behavior such as gossiping instead of promoting, staying home instead of attending, and avoiding involvement for fear of responsibility all add up to one thing – being in the way of your success. Hinderers usually evolve into helpers or haters.

Rarely do you find someone who treats everyone the same so it’s hard to label someone as a definite hater or hinderer. However, the behavior you exhibit the most will land you in one of these groups. Decide which you want to be known and remembered as.

-- Wood Butler, Jr.