Should we just listen to people when they say good things to us and ignore people when they say not-so-good things? That might make us feel better but what if someone says something we don’t like, but is actually helpful to us?
Our past accomplishments, mistakes, and circumstances are what we and others often think about when considering who we are. To most, this seems perfectly logically and factually accurate. After all, our past is our story. It reflects our previous decisions, experiences, and abilities. It reflects our prior character, attitude, and knowledge. Perceptions are often based on realities.
You can make any point and share any thought through a monolog or a dialog. On any topic, you can lecture or have a discussion. As a leader, parent, teacher, trainer, or coach, you get to decide. The difference is that when you start a dialog, people get enrolled in the conversation in contrast to being bystanders to it.