At a recent dinner party among friends, someone asks you to listen because you are “not” always right.

Let’s think about this for a minute. Your first thought is wow I wonder what this is about?  I already know that I am “not” always right.  

Then you say to yourself, I was not born yesterday.  I am open to new ideas, accept change and new ways of thinking, and I let the child in me come out to play from time to time.  Isn’t this good?  I’m joyful, thankful for the life that I have, considerate of others, and am 100% responsible for where I’m at in life right now.  Great, you say to yourself!

Oh boy, you realize while you were consumed with thoughts of “you”,  you didn’t hear a word of what your friend was conveying. This is not okay, nor is it polite!

If someone asks you to listen that you are “not” always right, “stop talking” and stop thinking about yourself. Listen to them with a genuine interest in what they have to say.  You could hear something new or fascinating to add to your minds’ toolbox.

One’s perception of you is in their senses and not necessarily reality.  Their impression of you as “not” being always right could be that they view you as “always right” and perhaps this time they want to express their perspective on a subject before hearing yours.  It’s human nature to want to express one’s opinion or knowledge on a particular topic that’s introduced during the conversation.  Those that want to participate should be heard. No one wants to be made to feel that their thoughts or opinions don’t matter.

For me, as my grandmother would say, “it is better to be right than wrong.”  No one is right 100% of the time. It’s how you choose to react when right, wrong, or being asked to listen, that matters.   Be pleasant, kind, and respectful with responses, especially at a dinner party as it should be joyful for all. Keep an open mind that’s eager to hear others whether you agree or disagree.  Listening mindfully can be difficult but it is a skill that can be honed.

Be Bold and Bloom! The best that you can be every day, in every way, and at every age no matter what the circumstances are. Be your SuperSelf, strive for excellence.