In Proverbs 15.7 we read that it’s wise to share from your experiences. Additionally, that sharing is rooted in a good character. Thus, my good character shares wise counsel with others.
The Precept Explained
Wise counsel is a great gift to share with others.
However, wise counsel implies a good character that has a wealth of experiential insights to share.
According to Proverbs 15.7, the wise freely share what they know. In contrast, the foolishly overconfident don’t share.
Thus, what I’m seeing here is a stark split between being open and sharing. Or, being closed off and having nothing to share.
Moreover, the hinge-point seems to be the character of the leader.
Share Wise Counsel
Therefore, I don’t see this as an extrovert or introvert comparison. And, it’s not a factor of how social I am.
Instead, I choose to grow my knowledge and insight. Then, I freely share what I’ve learned. As such, I’m exhibiting wise-heartedness.
According to Proverbs 10.20, that willingness to share adds value to others. And, by assumption, also to myself. Then, in Proverbs 10.21, I see that the value-added extends to many others, not just a few.
A good character adds great value, whereas a poor character produces little that’s of value. Proverbs 10.20 paraphrase
Outcomes of Good Character
In Proverbs, we learn that a good character comes from someone who is wise hearted. That is, the core of who I am is wise. The following diagram lists the primary traits of being wise hearted.
In short, good character shares wise counsel, makes wise choices, and builds up many others.
Leadership Insight
You’ve heard “knowledge is power.” But, knowledge that’s hoarded is on no value to anyone.
So, why do foolishly over-confident leaders hoard what they know?
One likely reason is the belief in a zero-sum game. That fixed mindset doesn’t share because of the belief that what’s shared is no longer spendable currency for gaining power.
Conversely, the wise hearted hold an abundance mindset that freely shares so all gain and all grow. As such, be that impactful leader who knows that a good character shares wise counsel!
A second reason is the foolishly-overconfident belief in self-sufficiency. Unfortunately, that’s expressed as don’t ask for, or offer to give, any assistance.
Therefore, the core issue is choosing to be a know-it-all or electing to be a share-it-all, So, be a share-it-all leader to maximize your impact!
Apply This Today!
Impactful leaders maximize their value to the organization by continually learning and freely sharing their knowledge. Their good character shares wise counsel. So, be that leader!
Unfortunately, a poor character shows out in an unwillingness to share.
Worse yet, a poor character is so self-focused that it doesn’t see the value added by others.
Thus, the root cause for not sharing is a poor character. The outcome is an inability to provide the wise counsel that’s needed in order to be an impactful leader.
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