I don’t think people are to be studied or observed from a distance. People have a deep-rooted desire to be known and to know others. The trouble with this is that to be know requires us to let down our guard and be honest about who we are and where we have come from. The beautiful and the ugly parts of our life.

Great leaders and great communicators have this in common. They desire to know others and to be known. It takes a secure person who knows themselves well to be able to share not only their passion but also their pain.

And a beautiful thing happens when someones passion and pain are well balanced. They earn trust with people by setting the example of being open, vulnerable, and clear about their strengths and weaknesses.

Here is something to try next time you have a team meeting. Open the meeting by sharing an experience that didn’t go so well for you and talk about how that negative experience shaped your character. I am sure it will spark some great dialog.