Why Didn't You Respond?

It's hard not to take it personally, when we don't get the hoped for reaction from others.  There may be multiple terrific reasons that aren't even remotely related to us, including:

• Talking on the phone with a hands-free device that isn't obvious
• Didn't see us
• Didn't hear us
• Totally absorbed in something
• Forgot
• Didn't actually receive the message
• Language or customs difference

When we feel confident, it's easier to accept that we may simply need to try again to reach our intended party. 

Returned Calls

I get countless calls from strangers.  Too many callers spend valuable voice mail minutes stating their request then speed through their callback number.  I'm more charitable than many of my friends and colleagues.  I try to decipher the number and return the call.  Understandably, for many, these recordings generate an automatic deletion of the message. And, it's irritating and an unfortunate waste of my time to have to replay minutes of a message to interpret speedily delivered numbers.

Anyone can tremendously boost their chances of a returned call by slowly and clearly stating at the beginning and end of the message who you are and how to reach you.  Most importantly, give us a reason that is important to us, rather than you, to return the call.

Sharing

We all have things to share with others:

• Concern
• Experience
• Advice
• Mistakes
• Successes
• Connections
• Referrals
• Ideas
• Opinions
• Respect
• Understanding
• Values
• Wisdom
• Compassion

May we always remember that no matter where we are in our personal journeys, as we share with others, we increase our learning, experience and perspective.  Most often, important sharing involves listening intently and compassionately responding.

It Doesn't Always Matter How Big You Are

The biggest and strongest win many competitions. When position and strategy play a more significant role, size doesn't matter. This is beautifully illustrated in an exchange between two radio operators communicating from the water. The first operator says, "Move right." The second operator responds, "I'm aboard an aircraft carrier, I have priority and I'm moving left." The first operator responds, "Your call. I'm in a lighthouse."