Leave Your Book Out

I could go on and on about the benefits of diving into a great book but one of the most overlooked reasons is the ease in which it allows for interesting conversations to happen.

Years ago, as I was taking the train home I noticed a woman reading a book I'd just finished. I asked her if she was enjoying it. She seemed a bit taken back at first, almost startled that someone would pull her from the world she'd been inhabiting. "Yes," she finally said. "It's really interesting." 

I asked her if she'd reached a certain part in the book that I'd especially enjoyed and saw her slowly light up. "I just read that part!" she said. "Pretty crazy." 

We spoke for another stop or two before I got off and made my way home. I remember marveling and how I'd had a moment of authentic communication, even connection with a complete stranger in a city often noted for isolation and feigned interest. The power of books, I thought to myself. Of ideas, of possibility. 


Next time you're in line at the check-out counter or sitting on a plane, leave your book out and see what unfolds.  

Sharpen Your Intent

The other day I caught myself asking someone how they were doing and failing to hear their response. Instead, I plowed through continuing to talk about whatever was on my agenda, however trivial.

I realized that true listening is the gateway to a heightened sense of self-awareness. Listening with intention informs virtually everything we do.

Today, make the effort to sharpen your intent when interacting with others and see how it affects your communication and cultivates stronger relationships.

You may be surprised by what you discover.