We tend to hear histories…

By way of reminder…

In America our native tongue is not English. Funny, huh. I speak a version called “Chet,” and you speak some kinda Y.O.U.!

We also don’t actually hear, or receive the words in English. We hear the message based on what we believe about the sender, our history or lack thereof with him or her. And we hear the message with whatever insecurities, fears, and doubts are occupying our minds at the same moment in time. It’s amazing we hear anything that another is sending.

Recently I had the chance to help another hear with a bit more clarity. I helped this human with a word change. Word changes, remember, can make a world of difference.

Instead of hearing criticism, this human began to hear challenge. The sender was trying to challenge them to go deeper because the sender really believed that this high performer wanted more. And, they did. They simply had to get through some noise to hear what was actually being said.

What are you hearing from those that are nearest and dearest to you?

Remember, we tend to hear “histories” of those that have hurt us and oftentimes miss the chance to get better from some of our best builders.

Who knew that speaking and listening could be so complex…