Everybody's A Consultant

I have been thinking, pondering and learning from some of these thoughts I read from a blog of Steven Furtiks. Some of this could radically impact our interactions with others. It requires a good dose of humility and teachability. But once you get the hang of it, it will feel second nature. Learning everyday how to be a better leader!

Give everybody in your life the opportunity to be your consultant once in a while.

You’d be surprised how much the people in your life could help you with your situations and dilemmas.  But you’ve got to invite the feedback.

Some of the most helpful leadership insights I’ve ever received didn’t come from books or conferences.  They materialized when I asked one of these questions to someone close to me:
What do you think I should do in this situation?
Am I missing something here?
How do you see it?
What would you do if you were me?

• People don’t want to hear all your aches and pains, so make sure to keep it positive and solution oriented when you involve others in your situations.

• If you ask someone to speak into your life, do your best to shut up and say thank you when they’re done.  Thank you, and that’s it.  Whether you agree or not.  Whether you intend to follow the advice or not.  If you launch into a 3 minute defense or rebuttal regarding their opinion, why would they open up to you next time you ask?  My guess is they won’t.

• Weigh the words of those who advise you according to their character and competency.  Don’t give equal access to everyone.  Be smart about it.

Liabilities aside, almost everyone you interact with has something to teach you.  Even when their motives are wrong, or their worldview is different, there’s something to glean.

You can’t trust everyone as a confidant.  But you can utilize everyone as a consultant at some level.  Ask.  Listen.  Learn.  Implement.

You can learn something from everybody, if you cant, you should question your role as a leader.

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