We all have blind spots.
The trouble with blind spots is you don’t know you have them. You don’t know what you don’t know.
There’s a clue you can use however. A hack that strong leaders make a habit.
The trick is simply to be aware of what, and who you like. Don’t assume that what attracts you is all there is.
Make a list, mental or written, and think about what’s not on that list. Like the reverse of a social media algorithm. Who’s not on the list?
Of course there will be plenty of things you don’t like – you know them already – nothing wrong with that. The trick is to find the things and people you don’t like but you need.
Then pay more attention to them.
Connecting to others is part of your job like anything else.
That’s what connective people do, it’s also how empathy works. There’s no great effort in being sympathetic to someone you love. The effort and credit comes in reaching out to who you don’t like. Also the value.
“…don’t assume that what attracts you is all there is…”
Think about your job, whatever it is. What are the things you just don’t like to do? What do you keep putting off? Is that a problem worth fixing?
Now think about people.
Who do you not talk to or connect with? Maybe its not a like/dislike thing it could be you just don’t work in the same circles. Lots of these if you’re remote working…
Start a new habit of connecting with them. Somehow. Don’t do it for gain – like sucking up to the bosses or influencers. Do it for the experience.
You don’t have to be friends or confidantes, just friendly enough to talk.
If your leader is strong they might already be doing it with you. Think about that. Was the best boss you’ve had a connector or an isolator?
One of your peers might be too. These people aren’t just friendly they’re smart.
Don’t let the first time you talk to someone be the time you need their help.
If you can’t decide who to connect with, start with someone who you might need help from one day. You know who they are.
Don’t stop with them, you’ll find that being friendly and open is its own reward.
Start with one but make it a habit.
It will be a great habit to be in when you become a leader.
Who don’t you like?
.
.
“I might be wrong, but at least I’ve thought about it…”