Several times over the last month, I've had to remind myself to take deep breaths and NOT to communicate when I'm stressed about something another person did.
Several times during the last week, I've had to remind myself and others around me to communicate directly - and at first gently - with people involved in something that doesn't seem on the surface to be a good idea. That we owe each other as human beings to ask the question "why" with an open mindset before accusing another person of being the problem. It can be misunderstandings, different starting points, or bad intent. But you never know if you don't give the other person the benefit of the doubt.
Normally that being open and asking why has been one of my strengths because I sincerely believe that most people are really trying to do the right thing and feel appreciated for that. Yet, when I'm time pressured, I forget that I must adjust my expectations about how time is best invested = to gain understanding and resolve differences before they multiply.
In other words, I become impatient and perhaps it shows.
Darned humans - always needing an adjustment from my perfect schedule and process! Ugh!
I find that life gives us reminders just when we need them. My slow talks with friends over the holiday weekend and step back to look at what's most important in the long run helped.
I also read this newsletter article today from Fierce Inc in the USA (I met the owner Susan Scott at a conference in 2006 and remain a huge fan). The writer emphasized curiosity as a good basis for using your instincts to resolve misunderstandings. Nice way to end my day before dropping the office trash in the bin and strolling home across Zurich.
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