Are you listening... to your blindspots?

We all have blind spots—those sneaky habits that both help and hinder us. They’re our go-to patterns, often unnoticed, that shape how we interact. Especially when listening. Recognizing them is the first step to mastering them.

The Listening Trap

Do you listen to plan your response? Validate your ideas? Make your point? Or sometimes, you just want to be heard.

Every leader has a default listening style. Some of us listen to connect ideas, solve problems, or plan our next move. This habit, while helpful, can also limit our effectiveness. Take me, for example—I listen to connect. When someone mentions Michigan, I’m already thinking about my sister-in-law from Michigan or my Ironman race there. It’s great for small talk but not for deep, valuable conversations.

Real-life Insight: Taylor’s Story

Meet Taylor, an entrepreneur with a knack for problem-solving. But when Taylor teamed up with Anna, sparks flew—not the good kind. During one intense session, Taylor’s blind spot became glaringly obvious. Anna was eager to brainstorm, but Taylor couldn’t resist jumping straight into solution mode, leading to major frustration.

Taylor’s "fix-it" habit was stifling collaboration and growth. Once Taylor realized this, everything changed. By shifting gears and listening more effectively, Taylor unlocked a whole new level of teamwork.

Remember, even well-intentioned patterns can block real understanding. True listening means dropping your agenda and being fully present.