TLP211: Silence Says So Much

Jim and Jan discuss why they have been very conscious about not discussing politics or religion on the show. Leaders are faced with uncomfortable situations every day and sometimes it can be challenging to navigate controversial subjects effectively. We’re in an environment now where if we don’t speak up, we are making a statement, and if we do speak up, we’re on record. Listen in to a very deliberate and difficult discussion!     Key Takeaways [2:25] Jim and Jan have made a conscious decision to not discuss politics on this show. [3:15] Viewpoints and perspectives change over time as new information is obtained. [4:20] It’s not Jim or Jan’s job to judge leaders. They study leaders and it’s their goal to learn from them by asking questions to understand - for the benefit of the audience. [7:20] People are saying silence is complacency right now, but if you speak up and share your voice, you risk offending others. [9:05] Instead of trying to interject a comment or opinion when you’re not sure what to do next, asking questions and listening intently will get you farther. [10:25] There are two things you have to hire for, and can’t train, those are drive and curiosity. [11:15] Why doesn’t the other side listen to reason? We were never designed to do so! [16:40] Look at those you disagree with as instruments of a lesson to learn. [18:40] The current problems we’re all facing right now have been around since the beginning of time. [20:10] Through the act of listening, you can change. You can also hold two different positions at the same time! [25:45] What would a world look like if racism didn’t exist or if the world didn’t have religion? [26:45] People respect a strong dogmatic opinion, but hold your opinions lightly and consider other viewpoints.   [29:25] We all want to serve, make a difference, and make the world a better place. [30:30] Always find something you can agree on first, and then work from there. [32:40] Jim’s challenge: Be civil to one another. [34:20] Stop thinking of viewpoints as ‘good’ or ‘bad.’ Start thinking of them as ‘weak’ and ‘strong.’   Quotable Quotes “I’d like to think our viewpoints and perspectives continue to evolve. Why go on record for something that might change as we look at different points of view?” It’s always all about the questions! The human default is not to entertain other people’s points of view and to learn, but to advance our own opinion. “Hold your views lightly.”   Resources Mentioned       The Leadership Podcast is Sponsored by:     Cultivate Grit. Amplify Action. Investing in yourself isn’t selfish. Click to get gritty!     Free downloads of on Delegation, Time Management, Sales, and more.