An old Jewish tradition we can learn from
In Jewish tradition, people celebrate the Pesach Seder, a dinner which begins with a question from the youngest person present at the table: “Why is this night different from every other night?”
This is a ritual question, after which the person leading the whole ceremony asks four questions, by means of which attention is focused on the real meaning of the event. It is about the deliverance from slavery in ancient Egypt.
The very first question is asked to make the group reflect on why they have gathered and why they are celebrating. It is not about the food and the company of others. At least for a moment, they are encouraged to contemplate the spiritual meaning of the occasion. in this way, a sense of awareness is created.
Do the same for meetings and team communication
Maybe we should reflect on how we talk to each other. Our habits dictate our behaviour; in other words, we generally do things as we have always done them. Sometimes, though, a minor modification might yield better results.
If you know the purpose of a meeting and what needs to be accomplished there, you can prepare well and then participate fully. If it is not clear what the meeting will be about, you may find it hard to contribute and really add some value, according to an article on the management-issues.com website.
So when you are on your next conference call, don’t automatically mute your phone and start answering emails, as you would normally do. If a meeting strays badly off topic, don’t just accept it and suffer. Step up to the plate and get it back on track.
-jk-