What do you assume when you walk in a room, and the air feels heavy? When your team is working through an issue, what do you make of the butterflies in your stomach?

We, humans, place a lot of value in interpreting what we’re feeling. We put meaning on everything that happens in our lives. This is good, that’s bad, and I should avoid that.

The things you’re sensing are real. However, your interpretation of what you’re feeling can be wrong. So, rather than interpreting what you’re feeling, try just naming what you’re feeling.

“This feels heavy.” “I don’t know about you, but I have butterflies in my stomach.” “I’m tingling with excitement.”

Then, ask a powerful question to reveal what people are feeling. Better yet, call them up and ask them how they’re doing. You’ll know what to do with what you hear.

It’s amazing what you learn when you don’t assume you know what they’re feeling.

You’ve got this.