As leaders we all go through life and work holding to past regrets, those disappointments over lost or missed opportunities. We’re sad or repentant over things that we wish we had done differently.
Thomas Paine (1737-1809) was an English-born Founding Father of the United States. An inventor and philosopher, he authored Common Sense, a pamphlet that was influential at the start of the American Revolution.
As Jesus began teaching on earth, His words about leadership and leading were shocking. In fact, they were so at odds with religious leaders of the time, they believed Jesus could not possibly be the Savior they were hoping and waiting for.
On the surface the story of Job may seem a cruel game. A faithful man, he suffers greatly, questions God, and receives God’s pointed response. How should we lead when faced with trials and difficulty?
For clarity, consider each message in light of the question, “Is what I am about to say of benefit to the listener?” Even difficult statements are beneficial if they truly help the receiver, and are delivered with proper tone and context.
Some people are energized when they have interesting news about someone else. They can’t wait to share “inside information”, especially if it paints someone else in a negative or surprising light.
Undoubtedly we are more connected than ever before through electronic means. Yet our collective ability to navigate difficult conversations, especially conflict, is terrible. Perhaps our connections have become echo-chambers for groupthink.
Skip past the weather, sports talk and thoughts on the day’s salacious news headline. What you ask will communicate that you value the other person, and what they have to say. The information you gather can have a marked impact on your leadership.