Transactional vs Actionable

You can spot them a mile away. Their smart clothes. Their charming smile. Their enthusiastic handshake.

Within three minutes they’re pretending to listen to you while glancing over your shoulder. It only took them the same amount of time it takes to unload a dishwasher to assess you. No longer making full eye contact. Every time someone new enters the room they’re making calculations like a Terminator. Is that somebody or nobody? Can they elevate my life? Can you?

Those people are transactional.

Then there are people who make things despite you. Do things that get things done. They’re not gonna let anyone get in their way. And if you happen to (((vibe))), share similar references and mission statements, can bring skill sets and talent to the table, there may be an opportunity to achieve something cool together. Or, at the very least, bounce off each other. Workshop. Get inspired.

Those people are actionable.

Some of my favorite interactions are the random ones. An unexpected encounter that turns into something astonishing. You make a joke at a party. Or an open observation. A stranger responds. A natural exchange happens. An honest conversation bereft of agenda. A human connection and suddenly you’re best friends the next two-to-three hours. Often never to see or hear from that person ever again.

But they made an impression that is now a part of you. Your intentions. Your risks and resolve.

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Published on February 18, 2026 16:39
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