Model Thinking Differently

What are you known for and masterful at?

I served for 3 decades in the corporate space.

I was known for creating competent, confident, and happy leaders.

I taught all the time and was masterful at it.

I still am.

As a leader, your job is to create leaders. To do this, you must show your team how to think differently.

I'm constantly learning and growing and have a tool that served me well in the past and can serve you well along your leadership journey.

This tool requires people to show up differently and may frustrate them - especially if they want you to provide the solution. 

Here's the tool, and silence is also a potent addition.

When someone asks you a question, use one of the responses below and be silent as they process and respond:

• That's a really good question. What thoughts do you have? 

• That's a great question. What ideas are top of mind for you?

They will begin to catch on, think differently, and, over time, come ready with their thoughts and ideas. Now, you can help them work through them and come to a decision.

This also works well with problem-solving:

• I love your problem. Help me love your solution as well. What ideas do you have? [Don't forget the silence]

Here's a more complete interaction with 🔥FIRE🔥

• [Set the context using your words] I intend to support you to become a more competent, confident, and happy leader. To do that, I've got to show up differently.

• [Gain buy-in] Is this something you want?

• [Ask for what you want] Starting today, please only come to me with a problem if you have at least one idea or solution we can discuss. [Be silent and wait for a response]

• [Gain buy-in] How might you level up by having an idea or solution in mind before coming to me? Is this something we can agree to?

Model thinking differently. It will reduce stress and help you create competent, confident, and happy leaders.

Be More You.

Shermain