Insights & Observations

Tuesday, April 06, 2010

Observations ~ Walking Your Talk

With the pace and situations of life - personally and professionally - it is interesting to observe how others show up. There are those who react, which often is triggered by fear or frustration. Then there are those who respond, which often comes from a calmer and more relaxed or neutral space.

And there are those people who are projecting onto others and/or may be sending mixed messages. For example, he or she may caution others against being judgmental, yet they point fingers or engage in gossip. Another example might be when he or she tells an employee that they ramble on and are wordy. Yet the one providing feedback often goes off on tangents or has trouble making a point.

This reminds me of a quote from the wise sage, Anonomyous:

"What you do speaks so loudly, I can't hear what you are saying."

This quote is a good reminder to be sure we walk our talk. This can be done by:

* saying what you mean in clear, concise terms.

* be mindful of sending mixed messages. Remember effective communication is verbal, nonverbal including body language, tone, content, context and so much more.

* own your own projections!

* be honest and sincere.

* lead by example; be mindful of the example by which you are leading.

* engage in an objective self-inquiry process to find out what may be underneath what is showing up. This could be a written process or a point of reflection while walking, exercising or setting time aside for this specific purpose.

What to do when you meet or work with someone whom you perceive is not walking their talk? The best thing to do in the moment is to make sure you are centered, perhaps take a few calm, deep breaths. Inwardly move to a place of objectivity. Model the appropriate behavior. Take a time out and reconnect at a more appropriate time, but not too far from the situation or event.

In Clarity & Consistency,

Antoinette

© 2010 Antoinette S. Webster. All rights reserved.

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