Be A River, Not A Reservoir
June 16, 2014
By Carol Perry
John C. Maxwell, an famous motivational leader with over 60 books in circulation says, “If you want to succeed, you must learn how to connect with people.” And while it may seem like some people are just born with the ability to connect with others, the fact is anyone can learn how to make every communication an opportunity for a powerful connection.
In one of John C. Maxwell’s books, Everyone Communicates, Few Connect, he outlines the five practices and five principles to develop the crucial skill of connecting with others. Some thoughts that resonated with me include:
CONNECTING PRACTICES
- Find Common Ground
- Keep Your Communication Simple
- Capture People’s Interest
- Inspire Others
- Stay Authentic in All Your Relationships
CONNECTING PRINCIPLES
- Increase Your Influence
- Focus on Others
- Communicate Through Action, Thoughts, Emotion
- Connection Requires Energy
- Connecting is Skill
It may be a challenge to adapt to these principals and practices, however, connections will begin to flow naturally if you integrate them into your life; as if you were born with the skill.
I had the privilege of training with John C. Maxwell several years ago. During my training, I learned the commitment of time and energy you dedicate to your own improvement and the improvement of your team is much better spent if it’s multiplied. So, if you find this information to be valuable, spread the word and share these tips (or some of your own) with others. Be a river, not a reservoir.
A true leader is not the one with the most followers, but the one who creates the most leaders. – John C. Maxwell