The Heart of a HeroSample

Connection

One of the best indicators of the quality of our leadership and our hero potential is how people feel in our presence. If we belittle others, they will feel afraid. If we make demands, they will feel anger or overwhelmed. If we overlook people or take them for granted, they will feel insecure. But when we are present with them, they will feel valued and are inspired and empowered.

We have a new opportunity every day and with every encounter to be a person who hears, sees, and connects with others. When we give ourselves permission to set aside distractions and be present to a colleague or friend without an agenda so we can steer them in a certain direction, then that person will be able to move forward in thought, circumstances, problem-solving, and their best direction. We get the best of people when we show up as a welcoming committee of one for their very best self to make an appearance.

Think back over your life and consider who has made an impact on you and your growth. Chances are, those names and faces that come to mind are those of people who took the time to listen to you and receive your unfolding ideas with openness and grace.

The truth is that this isn’t always easy to do for one another. Providing a safe space for another person to open up can be the hardest, most intentional work we do in our heroic journey. It can also be the most profound, both for us and for those we encounter.

It can be difficult to extend the gift of a genuine connection to another person. Providing a safe space for another person to open up can be the hardest, most intentional work we do in our heroic journey.

When we shift our perspective toward God’s, we will understand how significance isn’t formed in building the resume or shaping the business deal. It manifests itself when we are present to another. It is multiplied when we show people they are significant by listening with a spirit of love to what is on their mind or heart.