I was in a recent discussion with a friend about marriage and commitment. Our conversation centered around how and why divorce happens. What happens when your partner doesn't end up sharing the same commitment as you? What can you do? As someone who comes from a divorced family, I was particularly intrigued.
My friend said, "In the end, they are just words."
Wow. I had to stop and think about that. Is that really true? My friend and I both want our words to be congruent with what we do - but what happens if and when others don't agree or don't follow through? And certainly I know I'm not perfect and haven't followed through with every single commitment I said I would do. Heck, I'm not even married, so I can't even begin to provide advice regarding marriage.
But this "actions are louder than words" piece is sticking with me - and, I have definitely dealt with it in other areas of life - personally, professionally, etc. I also know I am not alone.
How do you best have conversations with others about congruence? Without leaving them feeling as though you are judging them. Without coming across as "I'm better than you." How can we best teach the next generation of leaders?
Because in the end, it's more than just words.
Mike