Leading Thoughts for October 9, 2025

IDEAS shared have the power to expand perspectives, change thinking, and move lives. Here are two ideas for the curious mind to engage with:

Robert Dilenschneider on respect:

“ A starting point to develop and demonstrate respectfulness is to first respect yourself. You cannot respect others if you do not respect yourself. Paradoxically, gaining self-respect requires not looking to others for respect or validation. It is a quality that must come from within. Then, and only then, can it extend outwardly authentically.”

Source: Respect: How to Change the World One Interaction at a Time

II.

Sébastien Page on debating with brilliant people:

“‘Your idea is not you.’ He believes you should approach intellectual debates on technical or complex matters with open-minded curiosity and an unquenchable thirst for the truth. You shouldn’t take anything personally. Start by putting all the facts on the table. Too often, heated debates occur because people aren’t starting from the same facts. And before you disagree, take a second to point out something you agree on. Explain that you’re about to debate ideas, nothing personal. Encourage people to be clear when they’re playing devil’s advocate. With clear rules of the game and genuine respect amongst members, IQ-led debates can turn into positive experiences. There’s no reason to sacrifice relationships to get there. ”

Source: The Psychology of Leadership: Timeless principles to perfect your leadership of individuals, teams… and yourself!

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Look for these ideas every Thursday on the Leading Blog. Find more ideas on the LeadingThoughts index.

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