Are you a glass half full or half empty person? The question is a common one we ask when we are trying to determine if someone’s worldview is optimistic or pessimistic.
So, if you think the glass is half empty, then your worldview is more pessimistic. If you are a glass half full, then your worldview is more optimistic. When I was growing up, I was a glass-half-empty child.
To be honest, I never thought of myself as being a pessimist. Like most pessimists, I saw myself as a realist. While my sisters saw the world through rose-colored glasses, my glasses had a gray tint. I saw the world as it was with its many warts.
Like many children today, my parents divorced when I was in middle school. When my mother entered the workforce, I assumed additional responsibilities. As the oldest child, I felt it was my obligation to protect my sisters and keep them grounded in reality.
As I grew older, I wore my realist worldview as a badge of honor. In college, I thought I needed to be a grown-up and keep my friends grounded. When I graduated from college and entered the military, I took my pragmatic worldview with me.
Early in my career, my approach helped me be successful. While my leaders did not always like my questions or opinions, they did appreciate my candor. However, when I became a leader, I realized my approach was stifling creativity.
When my team members would share ideas, instead of listening and engaging them in a discussion, I would inadvertently shut them down. While that wasn’t my intention, that was my team’s perception. As a result, many times we struggled.
I was failing as a leader.
“Successful leaders have the courage to take action while others hesitate.”
– John C. Maxwell
After some deep soul searching, I realized my grey-tinted glasses needed to be upgraded to a transition lens. I had to make a change!
So, what did I do? Instead of sharing my thoughts, I practiced active listening. At first, it was very challenging, and I was frustrated. I realized I needed to add another tool to my toolbox.
In addition to active listening, I integrated coaching questions into my toolbox. The combination proved to be the winning approach for my team and me. It was so successful that I am still using it today.
One of my favorite things to do is to pop in on my team. When I drop in, I stop and chat with each team member. It is an opportunity for me to keep my finger on the pulse of the team and check on them as individuals.
During a recent visit, one team member wanted to share something that was bothering them. The team member asked if could they call me at a later date to discuss the concern. I responded, of course, and that I looked forward to speaking with them.
As I prepared to leave, the team member stopped me and said, “I appreciate you, Dr. Moore, because you are always so positive, and you are always willing to listen. Thank you!” As I walked back to my office, I couldn’t stop smiling.
Leaders have a choice on how we see the glass. Our perspective shapes how we respond. A wise person once said, “People wonder if the glass is half empty or half full, miss the point. The glass is refillable.”
I am now a refillable glass leader! It has taken much hard work, but the world looks better through transition lens glasses.
Are you maintaining a positive life stance in times of crisis?
#YourLeadershipGuide
Kim
Want to be a better leader during times of crisis? Click HERE to view my free Leading Through Crisis Masterclass and learn how.
Lead Confidently
Expand Influence
Achieve Significance
This was right on time for my Crazy weekend!