Most of my colleagues are in different parts of the country, so I always look forward to opportunities when we get to connect in person. Last week was one of those opportunities. We had a chance to learn new stuff, celebrate each other’s accomplishments, and help work through challenges we were all facing. I especially love our dinners, and this time was no different.
Becoming Who You Want to Be
At this gathering, we had a Future Dinner, which is an opportunity for us to speak into others what we see in and for them in the weeks, months, and years ahead. It is a great occasion to call out the growth and accomplishment we observe in our colleagues and encourage them as they strive toward their goals. One of my colleagues made the following observation during our dinner:
“People become the conversations around them.”
This thought really caught my attention. During organized dinners, like our Future Dinner, the conversation around the table is usually one of encouragement, expectation, and celebration. It is really hard to leave this dinner and not feel like your tank hasn’t been filled or that you that you will conquer the next opportunity in front of you. However, this observation got me thinking about the other conversations I have throughout the day with the people around me regardless where they occur.
Think about the conversations that have been a part of the last week, whether formal or informal, whether in person, over the phone, or through social media. What was the manner of those conversations? If you are like me, some of those conversations did not reflect the best you had to offer. In fact, some of my conversations really diverted my focus and attention away from things that are important to me.
Conversations + Accomplishments
Now, think about the things you want to accomplish in 2017? Do your conversations represent your drive to achieve those accomplishments? Do your conversations offer opportunities for others to support and challenge you to achieve those accomplishments? Or, do they reinforce the things that prevent you from becoming and being your best? All too often we settle for “less” because the people and the conversations around us distract us from our goals or, worse, sabotage our ability to make progress.
As you enter 2017, create the conversations that you want to become and find people who will join you in those conversations. Make note of them and reflect on them at the end of the year and see if they weren’t instrumental in helping you achieve your goals.
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