One of the hardest things to remember–and accept–is that I can’t make connections for other people. The solution to a problem or the path to success may be absolutely clear to me, but it may not be as visible to the person who “needs” it. Even more frustrating is the possibility that the obvious path may indeed be obvious to that person, but he refuses to take it. In these situations, here’s what you can do.
- Seek to understand the other person’s perspective before offering your opinion. Don’t forget you’re wearing colored glasses. (Click here if you don’t know what that means.)
- Be clear and direct when you explain your position.
- Speak the other person’s language as much as you can.
- Remember that the choice of action plan is ultimately not yours. Keep it in perspective. Move on.
If this sounds completely presumptuous, I apologize. That is not my intent. I don’t fancy myself high upon a pedestal with the ability to solve the world’s problems. I have, however, been in situations where the answer seems clear to me but where I am not the person who will determine the outcome; if you’re honest, you’ve been there, too. Just conjure up a memory of the last time you tried to get your kid to do his homework and you’ll know what I mean.