By Peter Jeff
The Leadership Mints Guy

Here’s how to improve your performance with a better feel for your work. Reading time: 3:58

After four years of marriage, Monica was thrilled that at last she might be pregnant. The doctor concluded his medical examination. Then looking more towards his nurse than to Monica he said in a matter-of-fact tone: “The cervix is blue. That indicates pregnancy.”

Then the obstetrician brusquely left the examination and hurried off to his next patient. Monica was so deflated. So chilled. So unfulfilled.

A few days later Monica went to see another doctor. He conducted a similar examination. With similar results. But with a decidedly different response.

This time the doctor shook Monica’s hand and beamed: “Congratulations, congratulations, you are going to have a baby.” Monica smiled. She felt goose bumps running down her back. She was so elated. So thrilled. So fulfilled.

Goosing the goose bumps — triggering a sense of well-being- is a critical skill for the most effective leaders. When feelings more than just the facts are shared, trust soars and mutual understanding and confidence ensues in any relationship, particularly one as intimate as doctor/patient. With feelings comes a human bond that cements conviction and leads to outstanding service, quality and performance.

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