Lost Generation
May 17, 2009
This video demonstrates how easily we can believe our perception is ‘The Truth.’ At the same time, it also highlights how there isn’t “One Truth” only different interpretations of something.
There is only ‘our truth.’ And ‘our truth’ is not even that reliable. It shifts with our perceptions. That means ‘truth’ can change from one moment to the next depending on the facts at hand. Even more importantly- by the facts we choose to give credence to as well as the facts we conveniently choose to ignore in the moment.
When I watched this video for the first time, I felt growing sadness and despondency about how this generation views their world and the legacy they are creating.
Then just as quickly my opinion got turned around 180 degrees to embrace a complete different perspective.
I learned how susceptible I am to being persuaded by a compelling point of view. Once I emotionally connect to it, I can be drawn into believing it to be “the truth”. It is so important to stay present and conscious that ‘my truth’ is only one perspective of many. All of which may be valid and right.
This is where coaching is so powerful. When ‘your truth’ isn’t serving you, your coach can reveal to you what truth you have adopted- perhaps unconsciously. You can examine the results you have been achieving based on your assumption or ‘truth.’ Then just like in this video, you can consciously choose to alter your beliefs, behaviours and actions to create more effective results.
This is one way we will change the world.
The Mom Song to William Tell Overture
May 10, 2009
In Celebration of one of the most paradoxical roles in the world. Motherhood- really parenthood- is the most rewarding yet often unrecognized, tireless and tiring, as profoundly joyful and it is painful, grows you and ages you. I wouldn’t trade it for anything!
The 24 hour daily refrain can be condensed to about 3 minutes. Yay. More time for fun together. Happy Mother’s Day to all of you!
If words alone don’t do it….
May 3, 2009
Q: I was dumbfounded when several of my team separately recalled verbatim what they were convinced I had told them. I never said those words. While they got the gist of the message, how do I ensure that I won’t be misunderstood next time?
A: For a team leader to function effectively, your team must be clear about your directions. Your team may not have recalled your exact words, but it sounds like they were on the mark with your intended message.
Messages are sent to the listener on two levels simultaneously. Information is transmitted through your words. But studies show 65 to 80 per cent of the message is communicated non-verbally. Facial expression, eye contact, body posture, motions, tone of voice and attitude tell the real story.
If you say a deadline is firm, but your voice tone conveys the blasé quality of “whatever,” don’t be surprised when you’re off schedule.
When your spoken message and your attitude are contradictory, the receiver will interpret from your more accurate non-verbal cues — how the listener “experiences” your message not how they “hear” it.
Take a few extra minutes before you speak to be clear about your content and to be aware of your emotional state. Speak slowly and intentionally to monitor your delivery as well as your words. Your goal is for your non-verbal cues to be congruent with your information.
Understanding deepens when it flows two ways. How well are you hearing your team’s messages? Pay attention to their non-verbal cues this week. Who needs your recognition? Who is eager for a new challenge? Whose tank is empty? A successful leader “hears” and accurately responds to their team’s cues.
Originally printed in The Province on May 3, 2009.
