Before we direct, correct, encourage, sell to, influence, plead with, or praise people, let’s take a moment to quietly love them. If we can’t love them, let’s appreciate them. We can find even some small aspect about who they are that we honestly appreciate. It takes a minute or two before a meeting. With practice, we can do it in a second or two.
It’s as if we are opening a small, safe, and completely appropriate channel between our heart and theirs. It reminds us both about our shared humanity. It encourages mutual respect and trust. And it fortifies the foundation upon which we can do great work together.
The secret ingredient we have been seeking is love.
In your corner,
Mike
Today’s photo credit: Thai Jasmine (Smile..smile…Smile..) cc