Pay Attention: How Listening Builds Authentic Leadership

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1 BIG IDEA
Big Idea: Listening is the quiet strength that anchors wise, present leadership.

3 WAYS TO APPLY THIS

• Practice the Recognize – Reflect – Respond rhythm before replying in any tense conversation.
• Choose one relationship or meeting this week where your only goal is to listen.
• Take one daily 3-minute pause to check what your body or environment is communicating.

3 QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELF

1. Where have I been reacting more than listening?
2. What might I learn if I get curious instead of certain?
3. How does my presence communicate respect before I say a word?

ACTION STEP:

Notice one place this week where you’ve been reacting more than listening. Pause before responding—and see what new information emerges.

GO DEEPER

What Is Intentional Optimism? (Free Download): https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/what-is-intentional-optimism 

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