I once heard a story about Henry Kissinger falling asleep in the middle of a very important meeting. Everyone noticed, but no one dared say anything because he was such a highly respected diplomat.
The moment he came to, upon picking up the few fragments of sentences that were being discussed in mid-conversation, he immediately interrupted the group with some blinding insight.
I try not to fall asleep in meetings, whether I am making the presentation, or receiving one. Because, unlike Henry Kissinger, I am very concerned about what people think of me, and want to make sure I come across as sharp and capable and prepared and on the ball. I guess I haven’t achieved enough yet in my career that would allow me such unguarded self-possession.
But that story sure puts things in perspective. Here is a man so self-assured as to doze off in the middle of some high-powered meeting. “What’s the difference?” he’s thinking. “I am smarter than these people, and I know what the end result is going to look like anyway. My time is better spent in a snooze.”
Such admirable bravado!
I decided that Mr. Kissinger was an inspiring role model. If only I could be so well-respected, unquestionably smart, and insightful! In fact, his example would be a good benchmark for success. Better yet, why not make it a goal? Yes! This is how I will know when I have finally arrived in my career: I can fall asleep during a meeting without giving a rip, because everyone knows that even in my sleep, I am a valuable team member.
Click here to continue reading this cliff-hanger over at The High Calling.
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Image by Dave C. Used with permission. Sourced via Flickr.
(P.S. Have I gone overboard using italics?)