Being Judgmental With Grace

Last week I posted about the wisdom in the phrase: “Be curious, not judgmental.” Since then, I’ve kept thinkingabout that last line I wrote: “…when it’s timeto judge, be graceful about it.”

In business — and in life — curiosity doesn’tmean avoiding tough calls. Leadership demands that we sometimes have toevaluate, correct, or say no. The challenge is howwe do it. If curiosity opens the door, gracekeeps the relationship intact when judgment must be made. It lookslike this:

·     Listening fully before deciding.

·     Giving feedback with honesty and empathy.

·     Separating the decision from personal blame orego.

·     Leaving the door open for future ideas, evenafter disagreement.

A culture of curiosity + grace builds trust.People learn that they can speak up, try things, and take smart risks — knowingthey’ll be treated fairly, even when outcomes fall short.

Curiousleaders create strong cultures. Graceful leaders sustain them. Morethoughts on this soon — would love to hear yours!

Interested in more information or a quick consultation, please contact GWLegacy Advisorsserving Sioux Falls, Rapid City, Omaha, Fargo, Des Moines andthe surrounding great plains region.  www.gw-legacy.com

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