Carl Sagan said “Who are we, if not measured by our impact on others? That’s who we are! We’re not who we say we are, we’re not who we want to be – we are the sum of the influence and impact that we have, in our lives, on others.”
I’ve had some interactions lately that demanded I respond in one way or another. Just because I know I’m right, do I jam that idea down someone’s throat? Or do I try hard to sit back, really listen, and find out what the problem really is? It’s so easy to just assume there is only one way, and that is my way – and that it’s almost always correct.
But things don’t get done with that kind of attitude. Generally, you piss people off because you are not hearing them. It matters not who is right or wrong. It matters that common ground is found, and we learn to work together.
Am I having a positive impact on others? Is the good I think I’m doing really helping people? Am I hearing what they are saying to me?
Listen to the message, and don’t shoot the messenger.
The power of Common Ground. Knowing all that you did for Franklin County, I’m sure you’re making even more of an impact in Webster City. Good luck listening, engaging and impacting.
thank you Val — your words are kind and encouraging!