Silence is Golden

Ever since I can remember I’ve been rather articulate and never shy in expressing myself.  I still have memories of my mother looking rather agitated as she reminded me that “silence was golden”. I never really bought in to that philosophy, as when I was talking I felt in control…people were listening to me…whether they wanted to or not.

As an emerging leader, I felt the need to share my vision, express myself freely and often with little or no filters to all those within ear shot. I was passionate with a clear vision that I wanted everyone to hear.

Later in life I realized the value of listening, of engaging others into conversation, rather than dictating my ideas, my agenda.  Asking questions and leaving people with more questions than answers, serve as a sounding board for further DISCUSSIONS as we moved forward together.

My dad, by contrast to me was a man of few words. In his silence, he taught me so much and when he did speak his words resonated with me…some sooner…some later…some much later.  One such nugget that took me a while to comprehend and embrace was the notion that when I’m speaking, I’m learning nothing new…hmmmm…Silence IS golden…

Be good to yourself…

Tell me...I'll forget

According to a new report from Harvard Business Publishing, today’s leaders must navigate a “volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous” business world. They go on to say that there are 8 leadership traits that are critical for success. (CLICK HERE for full article)

As one might expect, there were no real surprises in the traits needed to compete in today’s world market, but there was one quality that caught my eye; Effective leaders INSPIRE ENGAGEMENT.

Educators have long known the value of engaging students in the classroom. Engaging employees, on the other hand, rather than dictating, may be a paradigm shift difficult for some to grasp throughout an organization. If employees are constantly told what to do, they begin to find no value in their work and provide little value to the organization as the only investment they make is to do what they’re told.

Leaders who dictate often fall into the trap of believing they are the only one who knows what to do, how to do it, and when it should be done. Today’s leaders must give up this need for complete control if they are to grow and compete in today’s world markets.

 There’s an old Chinese proverb that says, “Tell me, I’ll forget… Show me, I may remember…  Involve me, I’ll understand.”

Be good to yourself…