A friend wrote me recently about leadership – ‘Why some can and some can’t?’ and ‘How to’ about team work. He made an interesting remark, ‘I can’t speak smart, and that’s why’.
“Speech is the gift of all, but the thought of few.” — The Roman Statesman, Cato. Very True !
Leadership is not about a speaking a language, but is more of how ‘words’ are understood. The difference between a mean word and a kind word is the difference between lightning and a lightning bug
Just think about the power of speech? When speaking, are you always aware that we use speech to – inspire, persuade, console, encourage, educate, censure, exchange ideas, vent feelings, pontificate, argue, thank, threaten, ridicule, hurt, disappoint, criticize, cheer, sadden, curse, brag, comfort, insult, strike fear, dissuade, provoke, incite, or apologize ?
Before you speak, do you remind yourself our words can express understanding, kindness, respect, love, praise, appreciation, resentment, hate, rudeness, or wisdom? How do you apply the gift of speech? Do you use it to tell jokes, spread rumors, wrench tears, make poetry, or instill hope?
The number of un-happy & restless in society is rising. So is the rate of crime & ignorance. To put the brakes on crime, we need to build more lives, not more detention centers and prisons. We build lives by nurturing youth and caring the under privileged. We must encourage them every step of the way, for they become what we encourage them to be, not what we nag them to be.
As they struggle to become responsible, they are sure to stumble along the way. At such times, let’s remember that a word of encouragement during a failure is worth more than an hour of praise after a success. If they engage in inappropriate behavior that requires a scolding or discipline, guide them gently. The purpose is not to instill fear, but to build confidence. Of course, correction does much, but encouragement does more.
Let’s begin to make a difference today with our words. William Arthur’s words are wise, “Flatter me, and I may not believe you. Criticize me, and I may not like you. Ignore me, and I may not forgive you. Encourage me, and I may not forget you.” We are all standing on the shoulders of others. We have reached our present station in life because of the help and encouragement we received from others. The best way to return that favor is by constantly encourage, inspire, and guide people we live our lives with and around.
Remember – Colors fade, temples crumble, empires fall, but wise words endure.