“Great minds discuss ideas. Average minds discuss events. Small minds discuss people.”
– Variations attributed to Eleanor Roosevelt & Socrates
Discussing people…otherwise known as “gossip.” Yuck! The word itself sounds so trite, yet if we are honest, how many of us would say we have engaged in this ugly little activity that causes so much heartache and strife among teams?
Gossip doesn’t have to be intentionally malicious to cause harm. Gossip is simply talking about people, often in an unfavorable way.
Leaders don’t waste time engaging in gossip. They rise above it. So how can we take today’s quote to heart?
If your team has a culture that fosters gossip, be the first to turn the tide. When gossip comes up, speak up or walk away. Have an honest conversation with your teammates about what gossip is doing to your team, and how you can work together to end it. The more time your team focuses on ideas – instead of one another – the more productive and satisfied everyone will be.