The sound of silence

Silence.

That is where we find gold.

Not because your grandpa told you so as a kid.

But because it allows for conversations to go so much deeper than if you would to try to fill the void with words – as we usually do.

Think of this. Throughout your day, how often do you have the opportunity to think a thought through?  Like beginning to end.  Without interruption.
And to then be allowed to share that full thought with someone without having to keep an eye on your watch, checking how much time you have before you have to run off to the next meeting.

I’ll take a guess and say it’s rare.

As a leader, having one on one time with the people in your team is precious.  Everyone is busy, everyone is trying to do their best, achieving their goals in the midst of a hectic schedule.

In that time where it’s just you and your team member, how much better would your team member feel if there was time for a true sharing of thoughts?

And how much more would you as a leader learn about what’s really going in?

Here's a challenge: Next time you speak with someone in your team, stop yourself from filling the void.  Explore the silence and see what happens.