There are times when you should just keep your mouth shut. Don’t believe me? Just ask a guy named Peter from the Bible.

For those of you unfamiliar with the Bible, there is a story found in the book of Mark, Chapter 9, that proves my point.

Jesus had just taken three guys up to the mountains for some down time. Peter was one of the guys.

During the getaway there was definitely a “mountaintop” moment and the appearance of Jesus was “transformed,” according to the Scriptures.

Upon seeing this happen, Peter ‘exclaimed.’  (Fancy way of saying he got a little too excited)

He said, “It is wonderful for us to be here! Let’s make 3 shelters as memorials – one for you (Jesus), one for Moses, and one for Elijah.

We are told, “He said this because he really didn’t know what else to say . . .”

Have you ever said something because you “really didn’t know what else to say?” I know, I have.

Good leaders know when to speak and when to stay silent. They understand the importance of listening and watching.

Your job as a leader is not to solve every problem. Your job is to discover solutions.

Chances are, there is a solution waiting to be discovered by listening to a teammate. By seeking to collaborate. By brainstorming instead of bulldozing.

The Bible also says, “Be slow to speak and quick to listen.”

Heed those words and you might find that others are more interested in what you have to say.

i2i,

Randy

Do you think it is more natural to be a talker or a listener?  What are the keys to being a good listener?