As a leader one of the things I appreciate is very direct communication from others. I would much rather have someone come to me and say, “Jerry I’m really mad at you about…”, than have someone be be upset and sit on it. On the flip side, I have to create a safe enough environment for people to feel comfortable enough to share their true feelings with me. I can create that safety by validating their concerns and by not talking over them, explaining their concerns away, or retaliating in any way.

I am really working hard at the art of listening and clarifying. It is taking a lot of learning and relearning. My hope is the people around me at work and home feel more valued.