While reading the latest Louise Penny mystery novel A Long Way Home, I was reminded of the 4 phrases Inspector Gamache expects to hear from his new recruits to the Quebec Surete Crime Unit. It hit me that being able to say these things is so simple and so powerful and so hard in any relationship. Gamache tells his newest recruits – if you can say these things with ease and comfort, you will succeed with your team, with me as your boss and as a human being. Start with I’m Sorry.
When I talk to colleagues and clients about issues with vulnerability and trust and surrender – a very common theme here on earth – I realize that these 4 phrases capture so much of the truth. How hard is it to say I’m Sorry? I Was Wrong? I Don’t Know? I Need Help? Try it out next time you have an opportunity. One is going to be a sticking point more than another. There are times when I trip up on all of them. The big one for me tho’ is “I need help”. What about you? Share your thoughts. And report any juicy stories you have.
NOTE: If you’re a woman, make sure you’re not saying sorry all the time. Use it only when you know you could have done better. In other words watch when you apologize too much. If you’re a man, maybe the “I don’t know” is one you are least likely to say – THAT’s vulnerability.
COMMENTS PLEASE. I need help :-}
