by Nancy Watson | Professional Peace Pathways
Once again, one of my favourite thought leaders and authors is challenging current thinking and practice. For years I have been teaching how to deliver Effective Feedback, which focuses on observation and data rather than opinion, which is of course subjective. We have tried for years to de-conflict the feedback process so that it can help enhance skills and build trusting relationships.
In the last thirty years, we have been through so many iterations of feedback that it is hard to keep up with the ever-changing recommendations and practice methodology. In my employment experience, we moved from Critique to the Feedback Sandwich to Constructive Feedback to the more recent versions based known as Evaluative, Interpretive, and Positive/Negative feedback.
Now Marcus Buckingham suggests that we provide our reaction rather than a carefully curated feedback discussion. I find this intensely interesting. Interesting because ‘reaction’ is fueled by individual stimuli, both internally and externally driven, and I am wondering how we can refocus management coaching and consulting to embrace Marcus’ new thinking.
It appears that ‘reaction’ could be a useful alternative. It will take a thoughtful and empathic person to deliver their ‘reaction’ effectively and without the kind of language and tone the destructive and over-used ‘constructive’ feedback process has delivered previously.
What are your thoughts?
by Nancy Watson | Personal Peace Pathways
In a fast-paced world filled with endless distractions and responsibilities, it’s easy to overlook the significance of how we show up in various aspects of our lives. Whether it’s at work, in our relationships, or within our personal pursuits, the way we present ourselves and the attitude we bring to the table can make a profound difference. Indeed, how we show up matters more than we may realize.
1. Personal and Professional Relationships: When we engage with others, our presence and attitude set the tone for the interaction. Approaching conversations with openness, empathy, and genuine interest not only fosters stronger connections but also demonstrates respect for the people we’re engaging with. Positive energy and a welcoming demeanour can create a comfortable environment where meaningful dialogues can thrive. In contrast, showing up with a negative attitude or disinterest can hinder effective communication and potentially damage relationships.
2. Professional Success: In the realm of work and career, how we show up plays a pivotal role in our success. Employers and colleagues take notice of our work ethic, enthusiasm, and commitment. Consistently arriving with a proactive and positive mindset can lead to recognition, opportunities for advancement, and a reputation for being a valuable team member. On the other hand, a lackadaisical or indifferent approach might hinder our growth and limit our potential.
3. Personal Growth and Pursuits: Our attitude towards personal goals and passions also shapes our journey. Whether learning a new skill, pursuing a hobby, or embarking on a self-improvement endeavour, approaching these pursuits with determination and enthusiasm can accelerate our progress. A positive attitude can help us overcome challenges, stay resilient in the face of setbacks, and ultimately achieve a sense of fulfillment.
4. Impact on Others: Our demeanour and presence have a ripple effect on those around us. By showing up with kindness, compassion, and a willingness to help, we inspire others to do the same. Conversely, a negative attitude or lack of engagement can dampen the collective spirit and hinder collaborative efforts.
5. Self-Reflection and Growth: Being mindful of how we show up allows us to engage in self-reflection and continuous growth. Evaluating our behaviour, attitude, and impact regularly empowers us to make positive adjustments. It enables us to recognize areas for improvement, refine our interpersonal skills, and align our actions with our values.
In conclusion, how we show up in various facets of our lives is far from inconsequential. It shapes our relationships, influences our success, and impacts our world. By approaching life with intentionality, authenticity, and a positive attitude, we can create a meaningful and positive impact that extends beyond our immediate interactions. Remember, how we show up matters – not only for others but also for our personal growth and well-being.
by Nancy Watson | Professional Peace Pathways
Understanding the difference between managing and leading is crucial for individuals aspiring to excel in their professional careers. In this blog post, we will explore the fundamental dissimilarities between management and leadership and how these qualities complement each other to drive organizational success. Management and leadership encompass different skills and traits, each serving a specific purpose within an organization.
How They Differ
Management primarily involves organizing and coordinating resources, processes, and people to achieve specific goals and objectives. Managers are responsible for planning, budgeting, staffing, and controlling various aspects of a project or a team’s activities. They ensure that tasks are executed efficiently, within budget, and according to predefined timelines. Conversely, leadership focuses more on inspiring and guiding individuals toward a shared vision. Leaders set the direction for the organization, create a compelling vision for the future, and motivate others to achieve these goals. They possess excellent communication skills and can influence, inspire, and empower their team members to perform at their best.
Authority vs. Influence
Another critical distinction between managing and leading lies in how they exert their impact. Managers typically derive their authority from their position within the organizational hierarchy. Their directives are usually based on the power granted to them by the organization’s structure. On the other hand, leaders gain influence through their ability to inspire and connect with their team members. Their influence is earned through trust, respect, and how they support and empower their colleagues.
Conclusion
Management and leadership are distinct yet interdependent aspects of organizational success. Managers bring order, structure, and efficiency to daily operations, while leaders inspire and motivate their team members to achieve extraordinary results. Both roles are indispensable, By understanding the differences between managing and leading, professionals can better develop the necessary skills to thrive in their careers and contribute to their organization’s growth and prosperity.
Which Hat Do You Wear?
by Nancy Watson | Observations on Conflict, Personal Peace Pathways
Conflict is a natural part of human relationships, and it’s not uncommon to encounter disagreements with others occasionally. Conflicts can often be resolved through open communication, active listening, and a willingness to find common ground. However, there are instances when conflicts become more complex and challenging to handle on our own. Recognizing when you need help to resolve a conflict is crucial to finding a positive and constructive resolution.
Clues That You Might Need Help
- Prolonged or Escalating Conflict: If a conflict persists over an extended period or shows signs of escalation, it may indicate that deeper issues are at play. When disagreements become increasingly heated or repetitive, seeking outside assistance can be beneficial. A neutral third party, such as a mediator, can provide a fresh perspective and facilitate a more constructive dialogue.
- Communication Breakdown: Effective communication is fundamental to resolving conflicts. If you find that conversations with the other person have become unproductive, characterized by misunderstandings, or are constantly leading to arguments, seeking help might be necessary. A skilled mediator can help bridge communication gaps and create a safe environment for open and respectful discussions.
- Lack of Progress in Finding Solutions: Despite sincere efforts, some conflicts may reach an impasse where both parties cannot find a resolution. When the usual strategies for resolving disputes no longer yield progress, seeking professional help can offer fresh ideas and alternative approaches to find a way forward.
- Power Imbalance: In some situations, there might be a power imbalance between the parties involved, such as in a workplace or family setting. If you feel that your voice is not being heard or your needs are being overlooked due to this power dynamic, seeking assistance from a neutral mediator can help level the playing field and ensure a fair resolution.
- When the Stakes are High: Certain conflicts carry significant consequences, such as legal disputes, complex business disagreements, or family issues involving essential decisions. In such high-stakes situations, seeking the expertise of professionals, such as lawyers or professional mediators, becomes crucial to ensuring a fair and legally binding resolution.
Conclusion
Recognizing when you need help to resolve a conflict is essential to achieving a positive and lasting resolution. Seeking assistance from mediators, counsellors, or other professionals does not imply weakness but instead reflects a commitment to finding the best possible outcome for all parties involved. Knowing when to seek help can lead to a more constructive and transformative conflict resolution process, fostering stronger relationships and personal growth.
by Nancy Watson | Personal Peace Pathways, Professional Peace Pathways
The cost of the problem is always more than the cost of the solution!
Consider the toll conflict has on you personally or professionally. It undermines relationships, professional performance, and organizational effectiveness and contributes to mental health states that tax our medical system and us personally. Does it make sense to ignore it and hope it goes away, that they were having a bad day, or that they had a ‘big’ difference of opinion?
If we can’t or won’t listen to those around us, even when we have a different perspective, we miss one of this life’s most significant opportunities; to learn and grow because we are exposed to other views, and thus our worldview expands. So does our tolerance and empathy; we can embrace new ideas, experiences and people. Other humans are wonderful creatures, we just have to let them in, and peace makes that possible.
