AWB Chapter 222 Listening and Understanding
Chapter 222 Listening and Understanding
As the team grew, friction and misunderstandings between new and veteran members quietly accumulated. Ye Wan was acutely aware of the shifting team atmosphere. Although everything seemed normal on the surface, she knew that underlying emotions were like latent fires that, if ignored, could lead to even greater conflict.
In this situation, Ye Wan knew that as a leader, she not only had to manage the team's daily affairs but, more importantly, listen to every member and understand their concerns and dissatisfactions. She believed that only through communication and understanding could a team achieve true harmony and cohesion. So, she decided to take a more nuanced approach to problem-solving—talking privately with each member individually.
One-on-one conversations: Understanding confusion and dissatisfaction
Ye Wan's first step was to patiently speak with both new and existing members individually. She chose to communicate with them one by one, providing each person with a private space and avoiding publicly airing their inner discontent. She hoped this approach would make the members feel more secure and more willing to express their true feelings.
She first initiated a conversation with the veteran members. These individuals had invested immense effort in the Valley's development and were the team's "backbone." Consequently, they were deeply dissatisfied with the new members' lack of adaptability and carelessness. Ye Wan didn't immediately refute them, but instead listened patiently, understanding their anxiety and uneasiness. She knew their discontent wasn't unfounded, but rather stemmed from a deep appreciation for the fruits of their hard work.
"You've worked hard," Ye Wan said gently to the old members. "I understand how you feel. After all, this land and these facilities were built by you. However, the addition of new members is not just a burden; it also strengthens our collective strength. Everyone has a learning process, and this transition period is necessary."
Her words were calm and resolute, offering some comfort to the veteran members. She emphasized that any team's growth begins with trial and error, and that the key is mutual support and growth in the process. She didn't ignore the veteran members' contributions, but instead offered them greater understanding and affirmation.
In the following conversations, Ye Wan spoke individually with the new members. She knew that these new members had just joined the team and were facing an unfamiliar environment and work, feeling uneasy and anxious. Many felt somewhat out of step with the team's rhythm and feared becoming a burden. Ye Wan inquired about their feelings with concern and encouraged them to express their confusion and concerns.
"I know you might be feeling a little nervous, unsure about how to collaborate with veteran members, or worried you're not good enough. Actually, everyone's feelings are understandable. Each of you is here for a better future. Your efforts, both now and in the future, will be recognized."
Ye Wan spoke in a calm tone, a force that made people unconsciously relax. She clearly told the new members that the valley welcomed them and that they were not forced to come here, but because they shared the same goals and ideals.
Guide mutual understanding: think from the other person's perspective
Ye Wan understands that communication isn't just about listening; it's about helping others see things from their perspective. She's not content simply listening to everyone's opinions; instead, she hopes to achieve mutual understanding through one-on-one communication, by helping everyone see things from another's perspective.
After speaking with veteran members, Ye Wan refrained from making judgments. Instead, she explained that the new members weren't irresponsible or unwilling to integrate; many simply lacked experience and were even filled with anxiety and hesitation when they first joined. She encouraged veteran members to be more tolerant and patient with the new members, understanding their growth process, and also shared her own experience of starting from scratch.
"You all know that each of us has gone through this process, from initial confusion to current proficiency. No one is perfect from the beginning. We are able to operate so smoothly now because we tolerate and help each other."
Similarly, when she spoke with new members, she encouraged them to understand issues from the perspective of veteran members. She explained that the veterans' strict work requirements weren't directed at them personally, but rather out of a sense of responsibility towards the valley and the future of the team. Every detail mattered to the overall development and survival of the team, and their strict demands were truly driven by concern.
"You came here because you hope to have a stable life, and the foundation of this life is created by the old members. To integrate into this team, we must respect and understand everyone, rather than just focusing on the insecurity we feel."
Resolving Conflict: Warm and Firm Leadership
Through repeated communication and guidance, the tension between the veteran and new members gradually eased. Through listening and communicating during this period, Ye Wan helped both sides begin to see things from each other's perspectives and understand each other's situations and difficulties.
She didn't rush to resolve all conflicts immediately, but rather patiently waited, gradually promoting awareness and understanding. She knew that conflicts within the team often stemmed from a lack of communication and understanding, and that if they could be identified and resolved early, larger problems could be avoided.
As everyone's doubts gradually dissipated, the team atmosphere began to become more harmonious. Older members began to help new members more, providing them with guidance and support. In turn, new members gradually found their place, becoming more confident and actively participating in team work.
Ye Wan silently sighed in her heart. This was the team atmosphere she had always pursued—a collective full of trust, understanding, and support. Under her leadership, the team was no longer isolated individuals, but an organism that made common progress and helped each other.
New beginning
After a period of adjustment and running-in, the team's cohesion has become stronger. Ye Wan felt a sense of comfort as she watched everyone gradually find their rhythm. She knew the team was heading in a better direction, and the trust and understanding among members would be their strongest support.
Her wisdom and patience gave the team the strength to move forward in the face of adversity. Team members began to rediscover that the valley was not only a place to survive, but also a home full of hope—a place they worked together to protect.