When we talk with clients about making small changes that have significant impact, we often use the word “finesse” to describe the process that’s needed.

Maybe that’s because we eventually bore of saying “optimize,” “improve,” and the colloquial “zhush.” It’s as much because the concept of finessing is apt.

In my mind, finessing is the art of injecting style, refinement, and sophistication into the mundane or the complex. But, rather than achieving these ends through being overly commandeering, finessing describes both the ends and the means. It is a delicate, graceful expression of expertise that produces equally elegant and elevated results.

When we act with finesse, we stay centered and objective. We leave our egos out of the equation and remain focused on the collective goal. From this headspace, we’re better able to resolve conflict, refine arrangements, and bring a sense of beauty and grace to our work, our relationships, and our spaces.

Tempering our know-how with an awareness of how our behavior invites or repels others is generally the winningest strategy. The reason? When we approach a person or situation with an intent to finesse (rather than steamroll or dictate) we express a level of respect. We demonstrate our assumption that those we’re interacting with have the best intentions of their own, and have done the best they can up until now.

A whole new level of growth and improvement for all involved can be accessed from this shared level ground.

This month, look for the subtle but impactful opportunities to inject more style, refinement, and polish into your life and your home. Challenge yourself to bring those changes about not with an iron fist, but with the nimble and tempered nature of someone who understands the understated power of finesse.