Human beings are perhaps never more frightening than when they are convinced beyond doubt that they are right. ~ Laurens van der Post ~
Have you ever ruined a conversation, a meeting, a party or worse, a relationship because it was so important to be right? So many arguments over things that really didn't matter! Reflect back and remember the times when you could've have just let it go. There are cases when being right is the difference between life and death - literally. But, how often does that really happen? Also, consider how frequent your arguments are about opinions and not even facts! Mindful leaders can determine when they are arguing opinion and when they are arguing fact, which one is life or death and then choosing wisely which argument to pursue or not pursue. Take the time to determine which is more important - relationship building or being right. There are times to be right but most often it is more important to keep the relationship right.
1. Close your eyes
2. Breathe
3. Empty your mind
4. As thoughts come in, acknowledge and whisk them away
5. Focus on your breathing
6. Think about the affirmation:
I will carefully pick my battles.
Lorin,
ReplyDeleteYou are so right! ha ha Seriously, I appreciate your thoughts. So many times I have been "driven" in whatever quest - family, work, school, even church - at forget about the most important things - the relationships with those around me.
I am convinced that when we look back at the end, our fondest memories and most meaningful thoughts will be centered around those we love and other choice friends.
Thanks for sharing,
Mark
Mark, Thank you kindly for your comment! I love being right! (wink) You made me laugh at that one. I dramatically changed my relationship with my father by just choosing to not argue. He would say the sky is orange and I would add that it was a lovely shade! After I noticed our improvement, I started to get others the same consideration. Thanks for chiming in!
DeleteCheers, Lorin
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ReplyDeleteSo true. Better to listen and agree to disagree. Changing one's perspective improves relationships at work and at home. Thank you. Amy Geffen
ReplyDeleteThank you, Amy - Glad you like it!
DeleteThis is so true for when i feel i am right and the facts are in front of me and given that i am very clannish i tend to overdo it when i am right, this is like a slap on my face. Thanks a lot for this advice i would try to put into practice. thanks a lot.
ReplyDeleteWe all struggle with this concept. Thank you for being so honest and sharing! When we know better we do better, right? Cheers
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