In leadership — whether in the classroom or the C-Suite — we want solutions. Something is not working, so we begin the search for the tip, hack, or strategy that will solve the problem for good. Name the problem, find the solution, done deal.
Except…
When it comes to the human dynamics that drive trust, culture, and performance, we too often solve the wrong problem. Oh, everyone is executing the strategies just fine, but if I still see the “other” (my co-worker, boss, subordinate — or, for that matter, my child, partner, myself) as the “problem,” the tips, hacks, and strategies never quite have the desired impact.
First, See Differently is here to challenge (and bring together) forward-thinking, people-smart leaders like you to master the art of “seeing the unseen” — in yourself and in others.
The unrecognized strengths that go untapped — an incredible loss of talent, energy, and commitment.
The unseen needs and motivations that so often underlie conflict — and, when named, can change the entire dynamics of a time and energy-draining situation.
The stories that people tell about themselves, others, and the circumstances around them — and treat as “the way it is.”
Chris Trout has spent nearly five decades exploring the extraordinary power of story, perception, hidden strengths, and the human dynamics of change. His teachers have included countless adults and young people who have faced great adversity and not only survived, but thrived. The transformative insights gained from this journey now inform Chris’ work with leaders who want to “see the unseen” in themselves and their teams.
As a highly respected keynote speaker and teacher, Chris has inspired audiences from inner-city Los Angeles to rural Alberta Canada. His writings and recordings, including Reflecting Strengths: 35 reflections on the art of fostering resilience in our children - and ourselves, the soon to be re-launched audio series, Loving Life 101, and the daily inspiration card pack, Do One Thing, have influenced professionals around the globe, from New Zealand to South Africa.
For the past 20 years, Chris has helped leaders in the business, non-profit, and education sectors to transform themselves and their teams through a deeper understanding of the human dynamics that drive culture, performance, and change through:
Thought-partnering sessions, where I listen carefully, engage you or your team in radical inquiry, and help you identify what has previously been “unseen.” New questions lead to new insights, new perceptions, and “inspired action.”
Keynotes and learning sessions designed to transform thinking and grow new skills rooted in “first, seeing differently.”
Retreats for small cohorts of leaders to engage in deep exploration and sharing around both the philosophical and practical application of this new way of seeing.
This community — First, See Differently — where Chris will offer new insights every week, along with guest posts, videos, and live dialogue, and more.
When you subscribe…
The free stuff: You needn’t pay a dime to get full access to Chris’ weekly insights.
The good stuff: But the posts are just the beginning. The real action is inside the community. (By charging a nominal fee for access to the community, we ensure those who are invited — and keep out the trolls.)
When you choose a paid subscription, you get access to both an emerging community of like-minded leaders, and to Chris — including Notes, videos, comments, dialogue, and the power that comes from a sense of community. And yes, I will be there, responding to your questions, chiming in on your comments, and offering bonus audio, video, and live events.
Yep, there’s an app…
While you can access First, See Differently, with Chris Trout through any browser on any device, there is a Substack app that has some pretty sweet audio and community features. You can check that out here.
To learn more about the tech platform that powers this publication, visit Substack.com.
