This past Tuesday was Election Day. Many races are decided, and a few are being confirmed. This event is part of this nation’s great history of letting the people speak. Our freedom to vote for what we want moving forward and who will represent those ideals. We cannot take this for granted or take it lightly, because without this freedom we can become complacent and ultimately lose our freedoms. Now is the time to unify and move forward. Some of our candidates won their races, and others did not. In the end, “We the People” are the government and need to come together on many fronts.
As leaders in our businesses and community, our actions and our words play an important role in bringing respectful thought into all of our relationships and transactions. That is where the real word leader gets its foundation – to lead by example.
Part of leading is facing challenges and different viewpoints and building bridges to unify through constructive discussion. Yes, there is the possibility of conflict, but if respect for each other is part of the engagement, a more fruitful outcome can take place.
This week, as you deal with the various challenges that find their way into your daily operations, take time to frame the situation and consider all parties involved and their perspectives before jumping in too early. In a world where technology has accelerated the speed of just about everything, we as leaders need to pause and reflect before leaping in too quickly.
A simple pause is the first step in building communication bridges between people with differing opinions. If, in our role as leaders, we skip this critically important step, we end up dealing with the aftermath of an even more challenging situation. Once communication breaks down, progress grinds to a stop. You can’t fix these issues with an email or a text. It requires person-to-person interaction and both parties to bring their best emotional intelligence to the conversation.
If the conflict starts with respect for each other, even when viewpoints are different, then the foundation for open, productive conversation is possible. It is not easy or simple. It requires real energy, patience, and the willingness to be open to other viewpoints. This framework gives way for conversation rather than pushing individual agendas, where no productive outcome takes place.
It is time to take on the role of leader and lead by your actions and words to build bridges in your business and your community.
Want a Promise Guide to support your leadership growth? Call JKL Associates at MI (313) 527-7945 or FL (407) 984-7246.
Journey On!
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Celebrating 30 years of Delivering on “Promises”
