In one of my study groups we are striving to initiate and move our conversations to a more purposeful level. We are studying universal spiritual principles to help us direct conversations toward more exalted ground, to be then translated in to action in our communities. One of the very first aspects of this entire exercise is to be able to listen to the one with whom the conversation is being had. I know when I go into a meeting or approach someone with a particular thought or idea to convey, I am so focused on ensuring that my own agenda is met that I do not pay much heed to what the other person may have to say. How may I effectively hold my intention to convey a thought or idea and also listen to what the others have to share? This is where I feel perceptiveness helps me. I have a strong controller tendency and often direct and guide the conversation where it is I would like it to go. When I release my grip on this control, I have experienced a slowing down of my mind to concentrate on the person, and create curiosity about what they have to share. When I have been offered the gift of being heard and understood I feel closer to whomever I am with. This brings me to an aspect of a project I have to complete. I have a number of interviews scheduled next week as the first step toward suggesting ways in which a culture shift may occur in an organisation. I am of the view that the more information I am able to glean from the different actors in this organisation the more I will learn about how they interact with one another and devise a way forward for them to consider in pursuit of their goals. I had been thinking that I needed to have the strategies mapped out at the outset but reflecting on this card has made me aware that I need only listen and perhaps assist them in getting their ideas out in the open and then when I bring all of these elements together I may suggest some strategies for consideration. The intuition and discernment wrapped up in this virtue may be accessed when I quiet my mind.
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