Listening for What Isn’t Said

Over time, I’ve learned that the first thing someone brings to me isn’t always the real question.

I’ve noticed this often in technology — not everyone is technical, and not everyone knows how to frame what they need right away.

Sometimes what’s shared is incomplete. Sometimes it’s just the safest place they know how to start.

Early in my career, I was quick to respond — assuming clarity where there was still uncertainty.

With experience, I learned to slow down and listen with the intent to understand, not to solve.

Not every conversation needs an immediate answer. Some just need room to become clearer.