Normal humans believe they know what their partner/friend/spouse/teammate is thinking. We believe we can read them like a book. We cannot. Much of our conflict is a result of assuming, incorrectly, what another meant by the words or looks they just shot our way. What’s the alternative?
Become insatiably curious.
Tune in like an animal being stalked. Put your phone away and your iPad down. Look them in the eye, smile, and start the conversation with a curious question. Go where they take you. You’ll be surprised how much you learn.
Remember, we don’t comprehend the words in a book very well either. C.S. Lewis instructed us to read one of his books six times before assuming we got his message. Getting another human? My guess is we’ve got a lot more reading to do. Face. Body language. Tone. Read ’em like a really good book. Keep rereading, right? Assume less, friend. Inquire more. 7 good minutes? 7 X 700,000,000. Great!
Live hard. Love harder…
BUILT TO LEAD 
Chet,
Although my BTL journey has been relatively brief, a month shy of 2 years today, it has profoundly impacted every aspect of my life. Daily reading, reflection, and writing have become integral to my identity. The pages of your book and now your blogs have a “Church Effect” on me; it feels as though you are speaking directly to me, akin to a pastor’s sermon.
Thank you for always reaching me on such a personal level, Chet!
Thanks for your kind words. So glad you are gaining clarity from our work. All the best to you!