I am approaching my first anniversary in a challenging assignment. In my mind, my plan has remained constant. We need to build capabilities, capacity, and cohesiveness. In my head everything follows. I know that our themes have become more detailed. Additionally, the team that I am working with is broader and deeper. We are clearing gaining more momentum with the passing of each day. There is a “however” in the conversation that I must acknowledge. Not everyone knows the plan.
There is something powerful that comes from knowing. When you do not know, communication falters. One or both parties assume they know what the other is doing. We you do not know, judgments are made presuming facts and intent. Each party uses their framework as a basis for seeing the other. When you do not know, uncertainty prevails. Uncertainty breeds doubts. Both give birth to fear. Knowing is the antidote to fear, uncertainty and doubt.
When we know, we hold a unique opportunity. We can buy in. We can add our perspective to the mix. We can join forces. It is an opportunity to intentionally exercise our freedom. Everything is possible.
It is easy to assume that others know after one conversation. If only. Rarely is this assumption true. Knowing is more than just information. It is data, information, and understanding. The latter often involves questions, challenges, and repetition.
As I reflect on what I need to do, I realize that the challenge in knowing extends beyond work. Do others know my heart? Do I understand my God? Am I interested in being in the know?
Knowing is a two-way processing that involves hearing with the intent of learning. To me it is a rich blend of words, emotions, and belief that are shared in trust. It starts with a reminder of where things begin. With God, it is right at the core. “Again, this is God’s command: to believe in his personally named Son, Jesus Christ. He told us to love each other, in line with the original command.” (1 John 3.23) Today’s plan is…
