Part I of II
For the past 16 years, each December, I share the biggest lessons that came my way during the year. Throughout 2022, there were plenty:
Good insights – ‘Three of the nation’s best business thinkers walk into a bar…’ Well, not exactly; however, Brene’ Brown, Adam Grant and Simon Sinek recorded podcasts together that are most insightful. Some of the topics they explore are quiet quitting, engagement, and boundaries. While I’m more storyteller than thought leader, I was asked to be a guest on two podcasts this year. It was a lot of fun to be interviewed and share experiences from my four different careers.
Simple Reminder – Several of my clients said a similar phrase to me: “When I find myself wondering how to handle a challenge, I think: ‘What would David say?’” While it’s not the same magnitude as WWJD, it’s good to know our coaching sessions are having an impact that goes beyond the couple of hours each month we spend together.
Audio Files – Since receiving certification in the Birkman assessment in 2007, I’ve delivered more than 300 individual debriefings and facilitated dozens of team retreats. Those days are filled with vibrant discussion and fun activities that reveal personality styles in real-time. Another survey I use is the Model for Skilled Dialogue, where individuals learn the four communication voices. In October, I delivered it to a group of 125 people at the Houston Zoo. While walking around beforehand with my wife Kathy, the Howler Monkeys were expressing themselves loudly. I recorded their voices for 30 seconds and played it for the group, showing that communication is not limited to humans, even if some sounds are noise to our ears.
Rank Amateur – When dirt mounds popped up, I was certain a family of pesky invaders found refuge in the backyard of our son’s new home. So, I did what any good father would: went to Tractor Supply and purchased a few mole traps. Three weeks later, a 10 square foot area looked like it could host a miniature Moto X competition. So, Kyle did what any good son would: called a professional. He took a shovel, turned over about a foot of soil, looked at me and said: “These aren’t moles, they’re gophers, and there’s probably two of them.” He placed eight tiny traps in the extended tunnels, and a few days and several hundred dollars later… problem eradicated.
History Lesson – The best TV series we watched this year was 1883, an origin story for the popular Yellowstone. It tells the journey of the Dutton family by wagon from my hometown of Fort Worth to the Northwest. There were moments of joy and heartbreak set amidst beautiful vistas, and realistic portrayals of the challenges pioneers faced while seeking opportunity. Newcomer Isabel May was outstanding as the narrator and central character. Sam Elliott, now 77, still has chops. Tim McGraw, as always, was stellar. Most surprising, as I said each episode: “Who knew Faith Hill could act?” That none of them received an Emmy nomination says everything about award shows.
