We've all heard of the Golden Rule: "Treat others the way you want to be treated." It's the foundation of any moral code (or karmic code, as some would say). But what about Platinum Rule? "Treat others the way THEY want to be treated." It's a switch in perspective. The Platinum Rule doesn't assume that others have the same inclinations or preferences as you do. It's a way of actually stepping into another's shoes and seeing the world from their view. Once you understand where they're coming from, once you understand how it is to be like them, then you'd understand what they like and how they want to be treated.

The term 'Platinum Rule' was coined by Dr. Tony Alessandra, one of the foremost motivational speakers in the country. Dr. Alessandra identified four Behavioral Styles that most people fit in: the Director, Socializer, Thinker and Relater. We all have these qualities to certain degrees, but we all have a dominant style. The point is, if you can identify what another person's dominant style is, you can adapt accordingly and relate to them in a way that wins them over. This is perfect for any kind of business or personal relationship. It's a surefire way of diffusing conflict and establishing rapport, a way of knowing the other person's needs and meeting them. It's a win-win way of motivating someone into action.

What is your Behaviroal Style? Are you a Director, Socializer, Thinker or Relater? What is your boss's style? Or your employee's? What about your wife or son? Read this fascinating article by Dr. Alessandra, The Platinum Rule, and then take the FREE Behavioral Style Assessment to identify your personality style. This is a valuable tool to charge up your emotional intelligence.

After all, it's the EQ (Emotional Intelligence), not IQ, that determines success in the real world, remember? (Hmm, wait a second. Did a Relater come up with that notion? Or a Thinker? Anyway, read on.)