If there’s such a thing as a word of the week, mine’s “listen.” It came up in conversations with myself on how to show up as a better leader and coach; In conversation with some peers on a podcast we’re launching; In conversation with our team relative to work we do to support purpose-driven leadership in clients’ organizations; In a book on the same topic…In a book I bought because of the first book.
You could say the universe was talking to me.
Here’s what I learned when I listened:
I’m a really good listener a lot of the time. I find people and ideas and businesses fascinating. I want to learn all the things.
I’m also a talker. I think out loud. I get super excited about things other people say. I jump into conversations enthusiastically (to say the least).
I bring high energy and curiosity to most conversations – a good thing, generally. The worst, in some situations.
Here’s why: If we want to bring out the best thinking, problem solving, creativity in all people, we need to create a space for everyone to join in the dialogue. Diversity of thinking is the root of all progress.
This model from Sarah Rozenthuler’s book Powered by Purpose is a brilliant tool to check yourself in any situation.
You’re in the negative when you think…
- Your point is the most important one
- You need to persuade people with your point of view
- The information is redundant, irrelevant or doesn’t apply
You’re in the positive when you recognize…
- Your point isn’t necessarily the right one
- Others have valuable information
- Listening is the path to shared understanding and progress
My favourite part of the model is +2: Listening to the whole field – zooming out in space, letting go of attachment to any one thought / idea / person and seeing all pieces of a larger system. Imagine what could happen in the world if we all did that?!
Every single one of us falls below the line all day long. The power is in the noticing, the shifting mindset and acting on it.
Let’s talk about it. I’m listening.
Mary
