Relationships usually start with affinity: we work together, we live near each other, we both enjoy the same hobby or we exercise at the same gym. They deepen as we validate one another (implicitly or explicitly): we appreciate each other, we listen to each other, we show acts of kindness or we inflate each other’s
Is showing emotion at work verboten? I’m starting to re-consider the popular assumption that it is. Crying, laughing, protesting and celebrating are authentic displays of who we are and central to our humanness. The more human we are, the more we can fully engage with others. And as social acumen becomes increasingly critical to workplace
Recently, I coached an accomplished CEO as he was preparing to deliver a university commencement speech. He had fascinating stories to share that revealed profound truths about life, work and meaning. He spoke with confidence and warmth. And yet somehow still, listening to him, I felt bored and detached. I stopped him and asked what
At a time when Americans are more health conscious than ever before, it’s ironic so many of us suffer from the worst mental health in history. We exercise and carefully choose our diet. We worry about cardiovascular disease and dementia. Yet we neglect our heart and our mind. Why aren’t we as intentional about what
I want to work in an environment where people let each other be real. We engage and get stronger when we can be vulnerable. Vulnerability is courageous and honest disclosure of pain and insecurity. We can foster this authenticity when we respond with a sustained and non-judging presence. I learned about creating a vulnerable environment
Matt Norman is president of Norman & Associates, which offers Dale Carnegie Training in the North Central US. Dale Carnegie Training is a global organization ...READ MORE