I was working my way through the morass of talk radio on a recent commute home, when I stumbled upon a random call-in show. The topic and the host were unremarkable, but one particular caller caught my attention:
“Hey, my name’s Bob and I’m a long time listener, first time caller!”
I hadn’t heard that expression in years and it struck me as a throwback to the heyday of talk radio.
Good Old Bob had been listening to this particular host for years and had a firm grasp on the issues of the show. He finally felt compelled enough to step off the sidelines and share his informed opinion with the world. Good for you, Bobby!
We can all benefit by following Bob’s simple example. Listening is perhaps the most underrated skill we possess. It is one of the unheralded keys to unlocking success and happiness. But at some point, we have to step up and take action!
Listening is a Key to Success
When we start a new job or step into a new situation, we must fight the impulse to prove we know everything. We must have enough security in our abilities to admit we don’t have all the answers. And the best way to build our base of knowledge is to tune in to those around us. The answers are out there if we keep our ego in check and truly listen.
As managers, the same principle holds true. We all have good intentions. We all want to solve problems and prove our worth. But we must listen to our employees and fully understand the issues before we dive into a solution. Sometimes, a more calculated response based on the needs of the individual is the best path. “Ready, shoot, aim” is not a sustainable formula for success!
And the ability to listen in our personal lives is even more critical. As parents, we need to understand the issues of our children before we jump in to offer advice. As husbands and wives, we must resist the temptation to immediately “fix” a problem, and sincerely listen to our spouse.
Eventually, We Must Take Action!
But as important as listening is to our success and happiness, eventually we need to take thoughtful action.
If we are new in our role, at some point we have to capitalize on our knowledge and perform.
As managers, at some point we have to step up and direct our employees to effectively execute.
As parents, at some point, we have to use our best judgment to discipline and guide our children.
As spouses, at some point, we need to share our feelings if we feel strongly about an issue.
We must avoid the knee-jerk reactions and the quick-trigger advice. We need to be thoughtful and informed in our response to life. But if we never take action, what is the point?
Eventually, we need to saddle up and get ‘er done!
Resiliency Demands Listening and Action
Our ability to listen and take action is especially true when the storm clouds gather on the horizon.
We lose our job. We blow a big game. We suffer a financial setback. Our students fail us. Our children make a mistake. We fight with our spouse.
In difficult times, we need to retrench and re-evaluate our lives. We need to lean on the strength of our inner circle. We need to listen to the advice of those closest to us and embrace a new perspective. And then we need to take action!
We cannot grow without taking action. We cannot move our lives forward without taking action. We cannot stay resilient without taking action!
What Is Our Path Forward?
Listening is such an important skill in both our work and personal lives. If we are seeking answers, we will find them if we purposefully lean in. But some people spend their whole lives listening without ever stepping off the sidelines.
We can’t dream without doing. We can’t plan without executing. We can’t live without taking action!
Bob spent years listening and developing an informed opinion. And then he summoned the courage to step up and share his vision with the world.
And that is exactly what all of us need to do in our resilient lives!
Until next week, keep smiling!