Leaders often walk into situations with expectations, and rightly so. Yet in order to give a problem or person your most powerful and creative attention, it's critical to let go of any mental agendas, preconceptions, or other conscious distractions. The noise of you thinking, or wanting to get some points across, is in fact a busy signal cutting you off from new possibilities that may be trying to dial your number. A quiet mind enables you to tap into a fuller spectrum of ideas. Practice clearing your mind when listening to others, and simply asking more questions as the situation unfolds itself for you. In terms of self-will or conscious thought, “less is more” when the highest level of focus and creative leadership are required.
Note: Over 100 of these tips appear in my new book: Beyond Effective: Practices in Self-aware Leadership. Click on the image of the book at the top of this blog for more information.
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