Definition of Feel:
Experience an emotion or sensation, have a belief or impression.

Take a moment and revisit last week or even yesterday. Picture the people you interacted with and write down how you felt after each interaction. How many positive feelings did you experience?  How many negative feelings? Which feelings have you held on to? Why have you held on to them? Have those feelings helped you or hindered you?

People remember how we made them feel, not necessarily what we said, how we said it, action we took or item we gave them. The emotion we evoked is what resonated. It is what they held on to. It is what contributes to their belief and trust in their leader or lack there of.

People Gardeners– Transformational Leaders, intentionally communicate in a way that leaves their team feeling positively about themselves, their effort, their place or their contribution. Even challenging situations can be handled with care where the end result is a person feeling thankful that their leader took the time to clarify expectation/instruction/situation and had their best interests at heart.

How often have you heard this, “Words hurt!”? Become a thesaurus and diligently search for words that clarify, accurately express and are appropriate for the moment. Find words that don’t erect walls or tear down self-esteem. Stop and process the situation before you open your mouth and use words that are detrimental to the heart of your team member. Know that you have the power to impact for good or bad!

What emotion is someone experiencing when you interact with them?

What sensation is someone experiencing when you interact with them?

What impression is someone experiencing when you interact with them?

What does someone believe when you interact with them?

Yes, mom and dad were right, mind your P’s and Q’s!! Be Kind. Choose goodness.