Where true strength lives
Listening is the magic ingredient, the mojo of effective group leaders. It’s what your guys will need from you, more than anything else.
When you’re a good leader, you won’t always be thinking about what you’re going to say next…you’ll find yourself thinking that Dave hasn’t spoken up in a while and so you give him an opportunity to take the floor. Instead of jumping on a question, even when you know the answer, you’ll say, “I’m not sure…” and then say nothing. Seriously. You’ll just sit there looking at the fire and let the others take a crack at it. You’ll set things up, ask the questions, and let them talk. And they’ll love you for it!
For most guys, Firepit is their only chance to be outloud-honest. It’s when they put a voice to the thoughts in their heads…the ones that keep them awake grinding their teeth…the ones no one else knows about.
When you care more about the guys in your group than how you appear as a leader, then you’ll naturally listen more and talk less. That simple statement is all the leadership training you need when it comes to running a men’s group.
So take a moment and think about it. Do you really want to listen? Can you sacrifice that great opinion that pops in your head…the one that would make you sound like such a stud if you were to say it out loud? Can you wait patiently while others find their own words…the ones that will give them relief if they could just express what’s on their mind? If the answer is yes, then you’re a natural leader and will deserve their trust. Lives will change for the better…yours included.
If you’re leading a men’s group, allow us be the first to say it – thank you for listening.
We promise one day, you’ll hear these same words from your guys.
