A thought by Henry Cloud, from his book, The Power of the Other (p.7). Harper Business. Kindle Edition. (Click on the book title to go to Amazon.com to buy the book.)
This is so important for us to know and understand.
Henry says, “This invisible power, the power of the other, builds both the hardware and the software that leads to healthy functioning and better performance. For example, research shows over and over again that people trying to reach goals succeed at a much greater rate if they are connected to a strong human support system. Similarly, research shows that elderly who have suffered heart attacks or strokes fare much better, with lower incidence of recurrence, when they join a support group. Other research has shown that people who tap into the power of the other have stronger immune systems, tend to get sick less frequently, and recover faster when they do. Even if you eat an unhealthy diet but are part of a close-knit community, you will live longer than if you are emotionally isolated and eat only healthy foods. (I say amen to that!)”
He goes on, “We can wonder how it happens and why, and strive to figure it out. But we can no longer dispute that it does happen. Relationship affects life and performance, period.”
He later says, “I am a psychologist, leadership consultant, and coach. By definition, my work focuses on human performance, how people—individuals, teams, and organizations—can do better. If you are a student of performance growth, whether in business or personal life, you might have noticed that the conversation about how we do better is all about you.
“Improve your techniques, your thinking, your strategies and skills. Intensify your discipline. Clarify your goals, your commitment, your communication. There are many other skills, tactics, strategies, competencies, and abilities that you must increase and improve in order to get there. In short, the message is ‘You can do it! You can get more by getting better.’ Learn more, do this, think differently, lead in a different way. You can succeed by being a better you.”
Henry continues, “Guess what. All of that is true. Wisdom and competency do matter. We do need new skills, knowledge, and ability. We must strive to become better versions of ourselves in order to do better and be more than we are.
“But there is something missing from that menu: reality.”
He then says, “Ask many people about their greatest accomplishments and challenges overcome, and you will find one thing in common: there was someone on the other end who made it possible.”
And you now catch a glimpse, don’t you, how important that is for us to know and understand?
Comments
Post a Comment