Don’t Always Win
Have you ever met someone who just has to win…at everything? They have to win in conversations, business, activities, sports, opinions and debates. They always have to be right and love to let everyone know that they are superior in thought and deed. Don’t get me wrong, we all like to win and there is a time and place where that is a priority. But, not all the time and not in every situation…
The most common issue I see in leadership and in relationships is a lack of self-awareness in behavior. In other words, not taking responsibility for how we respond to and treat others. This causes frustration and toxicity in our relationships.
If you want to truly influence others, think about not winning. Instead of being the expert on everything, be a listener on some things. Allow others to share thoughts and feelings without the critical response that you feel must be shared. Be quiet. Listen. Acknowledge the opinions of others and hear their point of view. Even more, learn from their point of view. Someone told me once that an unsolicited response is nothing more than a dictatorial commentary. In other words, don’t give advice unless you are asked.
No one wants to be around or have a relationship with someone who must win all the time. There is a time to allow others to win. There is a time to display sincere humility and vulnerability. There is a time to admit that you are wrong and that you don’t have all the answers.
People are drawn to those who are authentic, admit their flaws and genuinely invest in others.
Choose to let others win and you will make a difference.
Larry
Check out our latest episode on the Crossing the Line Podcast:
Looking Back to Lean Forward
