I have an ingrained desire to be right — it feels like it goes down so deep it’s at the cellular level. Maybe it’s hereditary or maybe it comes from being the oldest girl in my family. Either way, it’s the trait that creates the most conflict for me at work. When I feel justified in the moment, I can say something short with the intent to sting. I can come across as annoyed, rude or even mean.
These reflective reactions result in wasted time, uncomfortable follow-up conversations, and, more often than I’d like to admit, damaged relationships. Maybe you can relate?
As leaders, we face a particular challenge: An inferred part of our job is to be right. People look to us for guidance and answers. They also look to us to hear them out and listen to their input. For those of us with this deeply entrenched desire to be right, hearing someone else's ideas can feel tedious — after all, in our minds, we already know which way we're headed.
Please select this link to read the complete article from Inc.