As a leader, I draw out deep-water insight from wise counselors by tapping into my past experiences. Then, I’m best prepared to question that advisor.
The Precept Explained
As a leader, how do I draw out the most useful insights from counselors?
As such, how can I have the deep conversations that yield significant learning?
Well, Proverbs 20.5, paraphrased above, says effective counsel isn’t from a surface response. Why? Because “counsel … is like deep water …”
Deep-water Insight
Thus, the advice isn’t off-handed. Instead, the deep-water counsel that’s most desired by an impactful leader requires a relationship of trust.
Plus, it needs ample time for exploring options in order to identify those few opportunities for deep advice.
As a leader, my ability to draw out this type of deep-water advice is linked to my experiential insight.
I gain experiential insight through personal reflection. Whereas, deep counsel requires that I interact with a mentor.
Taping Into Experiential Insight
Actually, I become more adept at drawing out insights from others as I tap into my own prior learning.
As such, I position myself to ask the right questions. Then, to listen carefully. Thus, I am positioned to change my behavior.
In addition, Proverbs 24.3-4 says that these principles apply equally as well to interpersonal relationships.
Knowing the facts, then doing what’s right, enhances personal relationships. Proverbs 24.3-4 paraphrase
Leadership Insight
Impactful leaders understand that wise counsel is essential to building a successful and sustainable organization.
They also realize that depth and quality of counsel is much preferred to speed and quantity.
But, here’s the catch. Deep-water insight requires a time investment from both parties.
So, make that investment for your own professional growth.
Seeking Wise Counsel
Now, as a leader, I benefited greatly from wise counsel of superiors who made time to meet with me and offer deep-water counsel.
Therefore, if you’re an emerging leader, be conscious of seeking that counsel.
Moreover, be prepared for the session by reflecting on your past experiences so you’re able to ask insightful questions.
Then, as your career progresses, give deep-water counsel to others.
Apply This Today!
Deep-water insight is only valuable when applied in a timely manner. Thus, I must know and I must do!
Arrogance and confirmation bias work against my willingness to hear deep-water advice.
Granted, experiential insight helps me draw out deep advice. However, the existence of deep-water advice is a warning to me as a leader that my experiential insight is incomplete.
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