Academic Medicine Open Forum

We tend to measure ourselves based on our intent but others measure us based on our impact. Effective leaders are aware that their impact can be different from what they intend or expect. Intentions cannot be seen, but impact is felt. Regardless of how good or justifiable your intentions are, people will respond to you as a leader based on how they interpret your intentions (through your actions and behaviors). As a leader, don't be afraid to openly state your intentions if there is any chance of misinterpretation. Also, don't be afraid to go back and clarify your intentions if you notice an unintended, negative impact. At the same time, all of us should be cautious when interpreting others' intentions. Try to assume good intent and give others the benefit of the doubt.

Have you ever had an experience when the best of intentions had a negative impact? How can you reduce the likelihood of a disconnect between your intention and your impact? If a disconnect occurs, what should you do?

We tend to measure ourselves based on our intent but others measure us based on our impact. Effective leaders are aware that their impact can be different from what they intend or expect. Intentions cannot be seen, but impact is felt. Regardless of how good or justifiable your intentions are, people will respond to you as a leader based on how they interpret your intentions (through your actions and behaviors). As a leader, don't be afraid to openly state your intentions if there is any chance of misinterpretation. Also, don't be afraid to go back and clarify your intentions if you notice an unintended, negative impact. At the same time, all of us should be cautious when interpreting others' intentions. Try to assume good intent and give others the benefit of the doubt.

Have you ever had an experience when the best of intentions had a negative impact? How can you reduce the likelihood of a disconnect between your intention and your impact? If a disconnect occurs, what should you do?

We tend to measure ourselves based on our intent but others measure us based on our impact. Effective leaders are aware that their impact can be different from what they intend or expect. Intentions cannot be seen, but impact is felt. Regardless of how good or justifiable your intentions are, people will respond to you as a leader based on how they interpret your intentions (through your actions and behaviors). As a leader, don't be afraid to openly state your intentions if there is any chance of misinterpretation. Also, don't be afraid to go back and clarify your intentions if you notice an unintended, negative impact. At the same time, all of us should be cautious when interpreting others' intentions. Try to assume good intent and give others the benefit of the doubt.

Have you ever had an experience when the best of intentions had a negative impact? How can you reduce the likelihood of a disconnect between your intention and your impact? If a disconnect occurs, what should you do?