“Take 3 slow breaths.” “Place your hand on your heart.” “Ask: How do I want people to feel? Who do I want to be? ” 1. “What’s going on beneath the surface?” 2. “Where might I be assuming without asking?” 3. “What’s the one powerful, open-ended question I could ask today?” Leader’s Listening Lens™ A mindset map for real-time influence, trust, and clarity. A quick reference for new and emerging leaders in healthcare Ground Yourself First Quick Lens Check (Before Any Meeting) Six Curiosity Cues Trust > Control : What would leadership look like if I trusted the process more than the plan? Spot the Quiet : What truth might go unspoken unless I invite it? Listen First : Who needs to be heard before moving forward? Challenge My Assumptions : Am I deciding why someone is resistant—or am I curious? L- I- S- T- E- N- Listen beyond words Involve whole-person context Strengthen values & voice Take action collaboratively Evaluate together Nurture the relationship Open > Close : Am I asking a question that sparks reflection, not defence? Process > Pressure : Am I leading with presence or with push? The LISTEN™ Framework “Curiosity is not a soft skill — it’s a leadership strategy.” -Diane Gudmundson If your team isn’t hearing you—or trusting you—it’s time to shift how you lead. Let’s talk about leadership coaching or team transformation. Email Diane: support@dianegudmundson.com