Page 35 - Wake Up and do Your Thing

NICHOLAS BOOTHMAN
billion-dollar company, Spanx. “We would be sitting at the dinner table and he would ask, 'So what did you guys fail at this week?' If we didn't have something to contribute, he would be disappointed. When I did fail at something, he'd high-five me. What I didn't realize at the time was that he was completely reframing my definition of failure at a young age. To me, failure means not trying. Failure isn't the outcome. If I have to look at myself in the mirror and say, 'I didn't try that because I was scared,' that is failure."
Ignite Empathy
Here are three ways you can improve your empathy.
1. Ask questions. If you’re not sure what the other person is feeling or why they’re upset, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Asking for clarification shows that you care about understanding the other person’s experience.
2. Stop, look and listen closely when someone is speaking to you. Imagine yourself in their shoes, pay attention to their words, tone of voice, and if possible, respectfully synchronize your body language with theirs. Be a chameleon. Sit like they’re sitting, speak with the same rhythm, voice, tone and speed as they do. This will help you to understand how they are feeling and what they are trying to communicate. Be subtle.
3. Be aware of your own reactions. Pay attention to your own emotions and physical reactions when you’re talking
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