How can our conversations uplift others?
This past week I had some great conversations with several people. It is amazing how one interaction can build us up or tear us down. Often, I find ideas sprinkled throughout my week that blossom into ideas I wish to share with my readers. This week was no different. I had some enjoyable conversations early and by the end of the week I had more, giving me direction. Our daily conversations have golden ideas and many times we miss them entirely. It seems fitting to share what I gathered from some conversations I had this week on Leading Conversations.
Many of us need encouragement at times and we have individuals in our life who do that for us. It is also important to be encouraging to those around us. This is what gets us through the day, week, or month. Self-encouragement is also important, as we can’t depend on others all the time. However, this conversation is about finding those who encourage us and being the person who encourages others. Taking time to have great conversations helps us fulfill the development of growing and being better.
Our conversations can redirect a negative attitude or emotion and make us feel welcome. Had an awesome conversation this week with a teacher about a student. When we face someone who is grumpy, angry or feels unvalued, sometimes making them feel more welcomed can turn the tables on negativity. Our conversations can change the direction of a person’s day; they are that powerful. When has an exchange with someone turned your day around? I know I have experienced many. Another perspective can be the cure for what troubles us.
I have people in my life, as we all do, who provide us helpful advice or direction. We all have moments when we feel lost, and we do not have the answers to our problems. The best part of my day as a leader is when someone needs my advice or view on an issue. Those conversations bring me the greatest happiness and feelings of fulfillment. Seeking the views of others can be extremely helpful, yet difficult. We don’t want to appear we need help, but we must feel safe, yet vulnerable in those moments.
We all need acknowledgement of our good works. Sometimes it is those acknowledgements that keep us going. We must make every effort to share with those around us when we appreciate their efforts and work, they do. When we share our positive reviews of our peers, we build lasting relationships and better trust. We have the chance to be someone’s positive reinforcer.
Who plays a key role in your encouragement and why?
How can our conversations redirect a negative or emotional mindset?
Who provides you advice in a time of need and why?
How can we share with others their great work and efforts?
Our conversations are important, not only for us but others too. I hope this week’s post reminds you of that importance. I challenge you this week to write down the valuable lessons you learned through your conversations. There is valuable learning and growth all around us and many times it comes from the people we engage in conversation with. Good luck finding those nuggets and please leave a comment below that will contribute to this conversation. Have a great week!
Steven C. Bucks- Leading Conversations
~Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member~
