Like an earring of gold and a jewelry piece of fine gold Is a wise person who offers rebukes to a listening ear. Proverbs 25:12
Jesus said, “Blessed is he who does not take offense at me.” (Matthew 11:6) He knew that when a person feels offended, their heart closes, and they can no longer hear what is being said. So it is with the one who puts emotional comfort above professional progress. For leaders to continue improving each day, they must cultivate a listening ear, and that means being open to feedback.
- Be Correctable: A listening ear has a healthy appetite for course correction. Having a “correctable spirit” ensures others feel welcome and safe to tell you when you are drifting.
- Be Coachable: A listening ear ensures that you are open and willing to receive advice.
- Be Thankful: The evidence of a listening ear is feedback in the form of gratitude toward one who takes the time to invest in your development.
It’s more work to give feedback than it is to let it slide. Candid feed- back is difficult for most people because it risks the relationship. Receiving correction is also difficult because it often involves pain. In either case, instructing others and maintaining a “teachable attitude” requires consistent “open-mindedness.” Saints who maintain an attitude of openness to correction, coaching, and thankfulness position themselves as team members whom others want to work with. It also communicates to God that you are moldable.
REFLECT TO CONNECT
- Whom do you know that has a teachable spirit?
- What steps could you take to position yourself as coachable?
- Is there someone whom you should approach to provide candid feedback?
People who remain open to feedback may feel stretched to straighten out but, in the process, are also strengthened.
