In managing others, I find myself expressing two very different kinds of responses to their performance. It is not that I am trying to be anything other than truthful. I base my judgement call exclusively on a judgement call of the difference between how much or willing the individual is to listen to what I have to say. Some would say this decision is an arbitrary one, and, by some measures, it is. However, it is also a decision that reflects what is best for both parties. Why waste my time if the person does not want to hear? I can merely make my position clear and move on. The opposite question is equally important. Why not invest in the person trying to grow and improve their position?
Over the years, the decision process on how much involvement and correction continues to get easier. The signals are getting more obvious. Right now, I have three individuals that spring to mind who are always on the lookout for insight. They are clearly the best performers in terms of the quality of their contribution and potential. They can and will go as far up the ladder as their heart wants to take them. I have a few others that want to know but also need to believe that they are fantastic just the way there are. The remainders are people who are looking for a reality check. Even when you spend time, the words seem to float away without even a nibble.
I love people who want to grow. I enjoy working with someone who sees the need to understand what could have been done better. I revel in their insights on my own efforts. Working together in this way is exciting! We usually bring results far greater than either of us could achieve on our own.
Solomon saw God in much the same way. “Don't, dear friend, resent God's discipline; don't sulk under his loving correction. It's the child he loves that God corrects; a father's delight is behind all this.” (Proverbs 3.11,12)
I want the spark!
