E-couragement: The Problem With Being Right
“Out beyond ideas of right and wrong doing there is a field. I will meet you there.” Rumi, 11th century philosopher, poet, and theologian.
It’s one of the most intoxicating of human desires; we pursue it as if our self worth hangs in its balance. It is…the need to be right. We fixate on coaxing “lady right” to shine her approval upon us.
Of course there is a cost to the rightness we desperately seek.
- Leaders: you’ll end up being right AND alienated.
- Salespeople: be careful or you’ll be right AND broke.
- Parents: your need to be right often leads children to rebellion.
Instead of falling into the alluring trap of rightness, why not explore Rumi’s suggestion and… meet in the field out beyond right and wrongdoing. This involves looking for ways to engage in ongoing conversation. Uncovering areas of agreement. Seeking to understand another person’s point of view.
More important than your need to be right is your willingness to preserve important relationships. The same relationships you’ll need to get things done, grow your business, make the sale, and bring meaning to your life.
Simple application: Next time you feel the habit of proving you’re right raising its ugly head, pause and ask, instead of seeking to judge who is right or wrong, how can I better understand the other person’s point of view?