The Approachability Principle

Being at ease with ourselves helps others be at ease with us. People miss incredible opportunities to connect with others because they do not make themselves approachable. Here are seven characteristics of an approachable leader:

– Personal warmth. Approachable people truly like people and generate personal warmth toward the people they meet.

– Appreciation for the differences in people. Approachable people appreciate people for who they are and what they have to offer.

– Consistency of mood. Approachable people are even-keeled and predictable. You know what you’ll get because they are basically the same every time you seen them.

– Sensitivity toward people’s feelings. They tune in to the moods and feelings of others, and then adjust how they relate to them.

– Understanding of human weaknesses and exposure of their own. Approachable people are honest about their abilities and shortcomings.

– Ability to forgive easily and quickly ask for forgiveness.

– Authenticity. Approachable people are real. They engage with others on a genuine level.

The Foxhole Principle

We face many kinds of battles in life, and the “foxholes” we sometimes inhabit come in many shapes and sizes. These foxholes can include the home, a business, a small group a platoon or something else. When preparing for a battle, dig a hole big enough for a friend. The foxhole is for you and a friend, not a friend alone. You can ask a friend to fight with you, but you should never send someone else to fight your battles. You might have friends, but not all of them will be foxhole friends. Foxhole friends are special, and even before the battle, simply knowing that someone believes in you and will fight for you is uplifting.