It's Tuesday at 2:00pm! (PST Time: I live and work from Southern California)
In this New Year I'm going to continue to explore some leadership quotes that might challenge us, inspire us or remind us of different aspects of the leadership journey. This is part of my personal journey to keep growing, learning and being stretched! Join me each Tuesday at 2:00pm (PST). It will take you just a few minutes to read through the 2 sections of this post, but don't miss the final section where I share some of the things I'm reading, listening to and enjoying this week.
You can find past posts on my website HERE.
Enjoy!
LEADERSHIP QUOTE:
“Leaders who refuse to listen will eventually be surrounded by people who have nothing helpful to say." Andy Stanley
What does this stir up? Either write me HERE or comment at the end of the blog post HERE.
A LITTLE BIT DEEPER:
We're looking at some quotes from Andy Stanley this month. There is a lot of content because I've followed Stanley as a Pastor as well as a Leadership Expert. Some of his podcasts and interviews with leaders over the years have really helped me in my growth and development as a leader.
This quote is profound in that it's a harsh reminder to all of us to value the thoughts and ideas of those around us.
There's a balancing act that takes place when you're in the leadership seat. We're taught to be ready to make the tough decisions, we're challenged to trust our instincts and we're applauded when we take a risk that pays off.
A leader has to be willing to manage the "weight" of those decisions, whether they lead to success or failure.
What we don't talk about as much is how important it is for leaders to hear from those around them. We need feedback, input, honest evaluation, perspective, concerns, a look at blind spots and all kinds of information that help us make the best decision possible.
I've learned that a team makes me a better leader, and to Stanley's point, if I don't listen to them, they'll go someplace where they can be heard.
I've seen really good people leave an organization because they weren't being heard, or valued, or given an opportunity to contribute.
What have you done in your leadership to ensure that those around you are being heard?
DEEPER STILL:
On a recent coaching call, we were talking about listening. Here are some things I need to be constantly reminded of that make me a better listener:
Choose to be PRESENT: Get rid of any distractions around me, give people my full attention, and let them know that I'm listening to them and not thinking about something else.
Choose to be NON-JUDGING: When listening, I need to spend less time thinking about my reaction, my opinion or my response. I want to hear people out completely before giving my opinion. Sometimes I rush to share my thoughts before listening to them fully.
Choose to be CONNECTED: I'm going to be all in: body language, eyes, ears, everything. I'm going to not talk over you, I'm going to ask clarifying questions, and what you think is important!
We can all be better listeners. Show the people around you how much you value them by simply listening to them better!
What do you need to work on in your life to become a better listener? Do those who work with you feel heard?
Things I'm Reading, Listening To and Watching This Week:
Find out more about Andy Stanley on his website.
Gina and I went to see this film this week, Sound of Freedom. It was a tough look into a story of child trafficking. I encourage you to see the film, even though it's difficult to watch. You'll get an education and you'll get a glimpse into what's happening in this dark part of our world.
I loved watching Andy Stanley's address to the Georgia State Legislature in 2022. What a great challenge to all of us! Watch it HERE.
We've been enjoying the music of Keb' Mo' in our home this week.
I'm enjoying working on my golf swing using Trackman at a local range. It really makes a difference when each strike of the ball is measured. I have so far to go, but it's a great journey!
Just experienced The Flying Dutchman on the In-N-Out Secret Menu! Great experience... For those of you in In-N-Out Territory, check it out!