Asking others about themselves is a disappearing art. While some people are prone to "monologue" about their world, others would seem to prefer uncomfortable silence to taking the plunge and asking a question of a fellow human. In both situations, failure to ask others about themselves is rooted in any combination of the following:
- Simple old self-absorption / Ego
- Social unease
- Need to think through things by saying them aloud to another
- Need for approval or reassurance
- Lack of confidence
- Missing an internal "talk timer"
- Inability to read social queues
- Addiction to one's own drama
- Deliberate disinterest
Those who neglect to ask questions and learn about those with whom they work, live, and interact day in and day out, for whatever reason(s), subject themselves to unnecessary isolation and a sense of disconnection.
Leaders cannot afford to miss opportunities to know the minds and hearts of those in their world. You never know what insights, innovation, or skills/abilities of another may bring to the table unless you ask. If you are on transmit 24/7, if you feel like you are supposed to have answers and not questions, then you are missing the world of possibilities before you, and the many opportunities that surround you.
When you become an active, curious student of the lives, experiences, and ideas of others, you will be surprised at the new choices that are presented to you as a leader.
