What We Can Learn from Jay’s Nana
July 16, 2007 | by brett | Permalink
Jay’s Nana is one of the coolest people I’ve ever met. At 82 years old, she has been responsible for developing a warm and supportive family, who I had the privilege of barbequing with on Saturday.
Jay’s Nana received the Los Angeles Mexican mother of the year award in 2005, which prompted me to ask why she thought was the most important thing in motherhood.
She said the key to being a good mother is to listen. Most of the time we don’t have enough time to listen to children’s simple suggestions or ideas. Nana says we have to.
“That’s why my ears are so big,” Nana says as she points to her ears.
The same lesson can be applied in business. I’ve definitely learned that over the past two weeks of managing four guys in an RV. We have to listen no matter how busy we are, because those ideas have the potential to develop into something much greater.
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THERE ARE 5 RESPONSES TO THIS INTERVIEW
Taneika Says:
July 16th, 2007
I agree that listening is important. Communication is key to a lot of business matters, but listening is just as important. I know you guys are all very strong communicators which makes me glad Jay’s Nana has gotten you all to listen to each other a little better.
Steve Says:
July 17th, 2007
I think your whole entire tour is an example of this. Your mission is to find passionate people and LISTEN to them. It amazes me how much more effective I am as a listener. It not only applies to business, but also in every personal relationship that I have. One of the biggest compliments I can ever receive is “he is a great listener.”
Eric Says:
July 17th, 2007
Steve, that is a compliment! To be known as a “listener” is exceptional. As I read the post today, I had to think as a parent of four kids. My wife and I have tried to really be good listeners. Sometimes we fail, but we have to give ourselves some grace. The fact that all my kids still share important things with me says that they feel they are being heard.
I was reminded of Steven Covey’s seven habits. I recently saw him on television talking about applying his habits at home, raising his children. His son was on the show with him. They were talking about the importance of the sixth habit:
“Seek First to Understand, Then to be Understood”
Steve (above) put it well. You are running around the country listening to passionate people. You are living. breathing sponges at a very exciting time in your life! Many of us are listening through you vicariously, I am sure.
brett Says:
July 17th, 2007
I listen for a living right now. I love it!
Bryan Says:
July 19th, 2007
fyi- nana loves crazy hats; i only wish i could have sent you this information sooner.
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