This quote offers a profound lesson in leadership and effective communication. It emphasizes that true leadership is not about asserting authority or dominating the dialogue; it's about facilitation and deep understanding.
The best leaders understand that their collaborators often hold the key insights needed to solve complex issues. Taking the time—even an hour—to patiently listen until the "real bottom of the problem" is uncovered is an investment that prevents future mistakes. A poor conductor talks over the orchestra; a great conductor listens to every section and guides the collective sound toward harmony.
Leadership is about creating the space for others to speak, not filling that space yourself.
What is one area where you need to shift from "directing" a conversation to "listening" patiently?