Damien and LaTeicia had known each other for more than twenty years. To LaTeicia, Damien was arrogant, he threw his weight around, he pushed his successes in others’ faces. He’d enjoyed considerable acclaim as a speaker and author, even a recording artist. She considered him a friend, but not close. Her impressions were locked in stone. LaTeicia was also a speaker but her career had seen many ups and downs. Damien intimidated her, and she avoided asking for advice for fear of ridicule. They had affable, but superficial conversations.
Damien’s career was derailed by a serious illness. His income stream trickled to droplets. To start over and rebuild be began offering his services as a coach. When LaTeicia heard, she called to sign up.
As a new coach, Damien was learning his skills. LaTeicia found herself providing him feedback on what worked and what didn’t, and they began to find success together. Her skills improved as his coaching became more focused and effective. Along the way, Damien began to reveal more of his background, and LaTeicia experienced his softer side.
At one point LaTeicia told Damien about how she had feared his disapproval. Been uncomfortable with his arrogance and way of being. Damien took her comments in thoughtfully. He’d had no idea. He told her how much respect he’d always had for LaTeicia. How proud he was of her skills and her progress. Her courageous WordFood opened the door to an authentic conversation that transformed their professional and personal relationships.
By speaking honestly to Damien, LaTeicia took a chance on a deeper connection. By listening to LaTeicia, Damien was able to understand his impact others. They have collaborated for three years, produced several books, and LaTeicia’s skills continue to improve. She was willing to remove Damien from the prison her previous assumptions had kept him in for twenty years. And Damien was willing to receive feedback about how his behavior was affecting others.
If you are keeping someone in prison because of impressions, try authentic WordFood. Chances are good that your world may change for the better.