November 3 is here. As we face today and in the coming weeks, many of us may feel stressed and emotional. As trusted advisors and friends, our job is to stay above the fray and strive to be the better person.
From now until the end of November, let’s commit to expressing kindness in all our communications, whether we agree with the other person or not.
Every Monday until November 30, I will post one idea from Worktalk that may help you keep a friendly, even tone in your messages.
Here’s today’s tip: Disagree Respectfully.
“It were not best that we should all think alike; it is difference of opinion that makes horse races,” said Mark Twain.
We learn through dialogue with those who see things differently. Disagreement is at the heart of excellence and innovation. So why has it become a dirty word in 2020?
People who hold different views from ours are not members of an alien species sent down to destroy life as we know it. They are fellow humans who view the world differently – perhaps very differently – than we do.
The coming week will challenge many of us with the urge to either gloat or revolt. Neither will carry our nation forward to healing.
So, whoever becomes the next president, let’s agree in advance that we will relate to our fellow citizens with respect – even if they voted for the wrong candidate.
Worktalk prepares teams to write clearly, confidently, and kindly amid the pressures of constant communication. Call us when managers have become communications bottlenecks, people misunderstand each others’ messages, and errors embarrass your brand.
For any inquiries or comments, contact Liz Danziger at lizd@worktalk.com.