⚠️ It’s Not Witty If It Wounds.
- Arlene Gaylord
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
“We listen too much to people who think fast and shallow, and too little to people who think slow and deep.”— Adam Grant
As a leader, I’ve worked with people who were quick on their feet but slow to kindness. They masked cruelty as wit, weaponized sarcasm, and dismissed the hurt they caused with a casual, “I was just joking.” 🙄 It was painful to watch. They didn't notice people visibly react to their ill-timed and cruel words. They really believed they were funny. They failed to read the room. The emotionally intelligent leader can sometimes say something and immediately sense how it landed. They quickly see the emotional wake, name it, and engage right in the moment to correct it.
Today's quote made me think of my Pop. He often cited Luke 6:45 to us when our words were out of line:💬 “out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.” He taught my brother and I so much. He taught us our words reveal our character. Life later taught me that clever didn't mean wise and glib wasn't always good.
In both coaching and leadership, I’ve learned:
❇️The deepest impact often comes from those who:
👂Speak less and listen more.
⏸️ Pause before reacting.
🧱 Use their voice to build, not to belittle.
🌱 Culture isn’t shaped by what leaders say. It’s shaped by what they tolerate.
If you're in a position of influence, don’t mistake fast talk for depth. Don’t confuse charm with character. Don’t ignore cruelty just because it’s wrapped in humor 💡.
After all, it is how we lead- especially in the seemingly small moments- that shapes who others become 💛.
