Rosalee Rush: Hear me. See me. Dare I say Listen!

Rosalee Rush: Hear me. See me. Dare I say Listen!:  Hear me. See me. Dare I say Listen! This is what we all want, need, and crave. We each wrestle with our own truths and role in defining and...

Hear me. See me. Dare I say Listen!

 Hear me. See me. Dare I say Listen!

This is what we all want, need, and crave. We each wrestle with our own truths and role in defining and molding ourselves into the leaders we espouse to be or simply want to be. My leadership journey entails spending a lot of time sitting in silence and reflecting more and more. Although, sometimes sitting with my own thoughts creates more noise and chaos than being in a crowded room. Yet, I'd rather be there than in a room filled with chatter, sound bites, and in-kind gestures bouncing off the walls and ricocheting nonstop. 

The silence I choose to sit in allows me to reflect on others' perspectives and concerns, and observe how people respond and react throughout my day. (Yes, I constantly replay meetings and conversations in my head.) I use all of my senses to hear people and analyze what's said and how the tone impacted or changed the atmosphere and dynamics of how people interacted. I find myself frequently questioning "did I add value or context to a conversation? Did I take the time to hear and digest what was said or asked, or was I feeling especially enlightened and just had to share my point of view?" 

Does it matter? I think so. Particularly, if you are a leader, mentor, or guide. (This isn't about a title, but more so influence). For those like me that are closely watching, rewinding, and constantly scanning the environment; every word, action, and posture has meaning. We must be deliberate and intentional in how we use them. They tell a story about us and indirectly reveal how we see others. 

Are you listening with all of your senses? What truths about yourself and how you value others are they whispering to you?