WHAT SIDEWALKS CAN TEACH US ABOUT COMMUNICATION

Why do sidewalks have those lines? To expand—just like your ideas should! ??

Keep it simple, like that epic Margin Call scene with Jeremy Irons, and watch how your conversations open up. Plus, one quick tip to get your audience talking.??

In this blog post you’ll:

1. Learn how creating space for others’ ideas can strengthen your communication and build trust.
2. Understand how asking for feedback makes people feel heard, valued, and less isolated.

Video Enthusiasts:?Click Below to See the Video Version of this blog.

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A few months ago, I watched a crew pouring fresh concrete on a sidewalk. When I asked why they added those lines, they said, “It’s to allow for expansion.” It got me thinking—our communication should work the same way. What if we made room for our ideas to grow and invited others to help shape them?

Step 1: Ask This Important Question:

Ask for input!

One of the simplest ways to create this space is by asking, “What am I not thinking of?” or “What have I missed?”

These questions don’t just keep the conversation going—they create a sense of connection. By asking for input, you signal that you value others’ perspectives, helping them feel included rather than isolated.

The Power of Asking ‘What Have I Missed?’

This idea is beautifully illustrated in the final scene of Ted Lasso Season 1, where Ted and his team come together to the song You’ll Never Walk Alone. The message is clear: even in the toughest moments, no one has to go it alone.

When you ask someone, “What have I missed?” it’s more than a request for information—it’s an invitation for connection. It shows you’re open to their perspective, that their voice matters, and that they’re not just passive listeners. It’s a way of saying, We’re in this together.

Step 3: Keep It Simple

A similar lesson unfolds in Margin Call, where Jeremy Irons’ character gathers his team during a financial crisis. He asks them to “speak to me like I’m a child or a golden retriever.” On the surface, it’s a call for simplicity, but it’s also about ensuring everyone is on the same page.

By asking his team to break things down, he shows that even leaders need help filling in the gaps. This openness creates room for clarity and insight, reminding us that leadership isn’t about knowing everything—it’s about being willing to ask for help.

Next time you’re giving a presentation or leading a meeting, try pausing and asking, “What have I missed?” It’s like adding those lines in the sidewalk that allow concrete to expand—creating space for ideas to grow and for people to feel connected. And don’t forget to check out my reel on this concept [here] for more insights.

So, what have I missed...would love your comments!