Franz Kafka, widely recognized as one of the most important writers of the 20th century, exclaimed the following:
“You need not even leave the room. Remain sitting at your table and listen …simply wait, just learn to be quiet and still and solitary. The world will freely offer itself to you to be unmasked.”
Of course Kafka and many other geniuses refer to this “stillness of the mind” as a route to opening up creativity. I believe it also is a foundation for respectful interaction between us as people and work mates.
When I take time to quiet my mind and to be present my listening skills and my presence increases significantly; more effective dialogue and problem solving often follows.
Having respectful interaction at work is vital for each of us to achieve a sense of value. When we are about to engage with others, let’s allow ourselves that brief moment for the mind to go quiet in advance. Put everything else down, be present and listen. I guarantee the experience will be better for our team mates and us.
With Character,
Lorne