This past week I led two workshops at Arc’teryx, an iconic company founded here in Vancouver.

The goal of these workshops was to help their leaders cultivate the essential skills of coaching.

So what did I ask 100+ passionate leaders and aspiring coaches to do?

Listen.

Just Listen.

In fact, I asked everyone to find a partner, and for two minutes one of the two partners would share their greatest challenge at work.

During those two minutes, the other partner was asked to listen, without talking at all. Even if there was a moment of silence. Even if the speaker seemed stuck. The listener’s purpose was to hold space and listen generously.

The feedback after the workshop was unanimous—being listened to without interruption (nor being given any advice) was a gift.

I share all this as a simple invitation to bring more awareness to how you are listening in the most important relationships in your life.

What’s being said that you’re not hearing?