The Best Ability
The best ability is teachability.
Those who love learning seek transformation. Are you?
Unteachable
People who already know can’t grow.
You don’t learn when…
- Confidence requires being right.
- Success kills curiosity.
- Self-reflection is for hippies.
- Seeking transformation means you’re weak.
Humility seeks transformation.
Develop the Best Ability
Teachable people change. The rest defend themselves.
The Question
“How can I be better at…?”
- Ask an employee, “How can I be a better boss?”
- Ask your spouse, “How can I be a better wife/husband?”
- Ask your boss, “How can I be a better employee?”
Listen for generic responses. They might say, “Listen better.”
“Better” is meaningless.
The Follow-Up Question
Move from vagaries to behaviors. Ask the “what would you see” question.
Use their words. When they say, “Listen better,” ask, “If I listened better, what would you see me doing?”
Growth requires new practices.
The Commitment Script
Make a short-term commitment.
“Thanks for your input. I’m going to (name the behavior) for the next week. Let’s follow up next week to see if you notice a difference.”
The best leaders constantly pursue better.
How can you practice the best ability today?
Dear Dan: How Do You Keep Learning
Learning Leadership from Life Experience
