Yesterday,
I thought I observed an employee misrepresenting a situation. It was a
small matter that made little difference to the overall outcome.
In earlier years, I would have challenged his statement and encouraged him to
fess up.
In my senior years of managing and mentoring, I’ve learned to keep my trap
shut.
First off, I may have it wrong. For decades, I never considered that
possibility. But as my mother used to say, “the proof is in the pudding,” and I’ve
found my opinions and memories clouded by preconceived notions. More than once,
when all the facts are in, I’ve had to apologize for correcting someone who was
correct to begin with.
More importantly, most people of substance have the ability to self-correct.
They don’t need someone like me to point out every error of omission or
colorful overstatement. Their self-talk will put them on the right track.
Besides, all of us listen better to what we tell ourselves than what others say
to us. Right?