Do you have time for passion?

A colleague of mine got a new Apple Watch the other day.

We caught up for a meeting and he spent the first 15 minutes telling me all about it and showing me how it worked. We had a lot to get through that day and now we were running late, but I couldn’t bring myself to cut him off.

He was in his element! So much passion and energy, his whole body seemed to be radiating excitement. Having someone to connect with over his new shiny toy put him in a good mood for our meeting and the rest of the day.

Like any expert, technology fans get excited by things that seem trivial or irrelevant to the rest of us. We don’t share their interest and we don't share their enthusiasm (I'm a proud technology late adopter).

Conversely, they probably feel the same about the things I get excited about, like writing a beautiful sentence in plain language or getting to know the world of a new Wires Uncrossed client.

Communication between technical experts and not-so-technical people like me can sometimes feel difficult, disjointed and even awkward. When a clear connection doesn't come naturally, it's hard to know where to start and how long it could take before you click with each other.

Honestly who's got the time?! The thing is it doesn't take long. Just a few minutes to listen and learn from an expert when you find them in their element. A few minutes to show your respect for their interests and passions. A few minutes to nurture understanding, communication and a stronger connection.

How do you react when an expert cracks opens the door to their passion?