There are moments in life that can define us, that can bring out the best in us, and that can challenge us to be better. It's these moments that can shape our confidence, creativity, and ultimately, our success. But what does it take to truly succeed in these moments? How do we build trust with others and ourselves? In this week's “Forged by Trust” episode, “In The Moment,” we dive deep with renowned comedy master, Neil Mullarkey, to discover the answers to these questions and more.
Working with Comedian Mike Myers and Becoming Comfortable with Uncertainty
Neil Mullarkey is a British comedian, actor, and writer who has worked with some of the biggest names in comedy, including Mike Myers. As a member of the famed improvisational comedy troupe, The Comedy Store Players, Neil has honed his craft and become a master of his art. But it wasn't always easy. In our conversation, Neil shared how he had to learn to become comfortable with uncertainty in order to succeed in comedy. He learned that sometimes the best moments come from not knowing what's going to happen next, and that being present in the moment is key.
Listening with Intent
One of the most important skills we can develop in building trust is the ability to listen with intent. As Neil explained, when we listen with intent, we are not just hearing the words that are being said, but we are also paying attention to the emotion behind them. We are listening for the subtext, for the things that are left unsaid, and for the things that are most important to the person speaking. When we can truly listen with intent, we can build deeper connections with others and create a sense of trust that goes beyond just words.
Bring a Brick and Together we will Build a Cathedral
Another important aspect of building trust is understanding that we are all in this together. As Neil put it, "bring a brick and together we will build a cathedral." We all have a role to play, and when we work together towards a common goal, we can achieve amazing things. This requires a sense of humility, a willingness to put aside our own egos and agendas, and a focus on the bigger picture. When we can do this, we can create a sense of trust and camaraderie that can lead to great success.
Trust Begins When We Understand Our Story and the Story of Others
Building trust also requires a deep understanding of ourselves and others. As Neil explained, trust begins when we understand our own story and the stories of others. We all have a unique perspective on the world, and when we can understand and appreciate those perspectives, we can create a sense of empathy and understanding that can lead to deeper connections and greater trust. This requires a willingness to be vulnerable, to share our own stories, and to truly listen to the stories of others.
Laughing Together
Laughter is often said to be the best medicine, and it's also a powerful tool for building trust. As Neil explained, when we can laugh together, we are creating a sense of shared experience and camaraderie. We are letting down our guard and showing our vulnerable sides, which can create a sense of trust and connection. Whether it's through comedy, storytelling, or just sharing a funny moment, laughter can be a powerful tool for building trust.
Being in the Moment
Finally, one of the most important aspects of building trust is being in the moment. As Neil explained, when we are truly present in the moment, we are not distracted by our own thoughts or worries. We are fully engaged with the people around us, and we are able to connect on a deeper level. This requires a sense of mindfulness, a willingness to let go of the past and the future, and a focus on the present moment. When we can do this, we can create a sense of trust and connection that can lead to great success.
In conclusion, building trust is essential for success in any aspect of life. Whether it's in our personal relationships, our work, or our creative endeavors, trust is the foundation upon which everything else is built. By listening with intent, working together towards a common goal, understanding ourselves and others, laughing together, and being present in the moment, we can create a sense of trust and connection that can lead to great success. Thank you to Neil Mullarkey for sharing his insights and wisdom on this important topic.
