Ep. 19 - W.A.I.T.

Today we’re going to talk about the importance of waiting but before we do, let’s talk gratitude. This week, I’ve got a shoutout for Lynn Corazzi, also known as the data magician here in Milwaukee. This guy’s a wizard when it comes to deciphering data and uncovering insights. Plus, he’s the brains behind Corporate Casual, a fantastic networking group in our city.

Speaking of connections, recently Lynn asked me to step in as a speaker for an event, and man, did we have a blast! It’s moments like these that remind me why I love what I do – sharing ideas, making connections, and sparking conversations that matter.

Alright, let’s get down to business. Today, I want to chat about waiting. In the military, we’ve got a saying: “hurry up and wait.” And it got me thinking – maybe there’s more to waiting than meets the eye. Cue Chuck Norris with his two speeds: wait and kill.

But seriously, a few weeks ago, during a counseling session, I had a revelation. I realized that in many of my conversations, I was too focused on being heard or proving myself right, instead of truly understanding the other person’s perspective. That’s where the acronym WAIT comes in handy – Why Am I Talking?

It’s a simple trick, but it’s helped me pause and reflect before speaking. And it’s not just about waiting – it’s about thinking too. My girlfriend shared this gem with me recently: before you speak, run it through the THINK test. Is it True, Helpful, Inspiring, Necessary, and Kind? These five questions have been a game-changer for me.

But here’s the kicker – not every conversation is the same. Are you consulting, convincing, or converting? Each requires a different approach. Whether you’re sharing information, persuading someone to change, or trying to shift their beliefs, understanding the purpose of the conversation is key.

And hey, don’t forget to consider what the other person needs. Are they venting and seeking validation, or are they looking for solutions? Sometimes, just being a good listener can make all the difference.

So here’s my challenge to you: take a closer look at your recent conversations. Did you wait, think, and understand the why behind your words? And most importantly, what was the outcome? Self-reflection is the first step to self-awareness, and ultimately, better communication.

So go ahead, tackle those tough conversations with confidence. And remember, whether you’re consulting, convincing, or converting, the power of waiting and thinking can’t be overstated. Thanks for tuning in, folks. Until next time, keep doing the work. Do the fucking thing! Tell the fucking world! Show the fuck up and we’ll see you next week!