At the core was a need to fundamentally shift the way I was A) approaching the relationship by definition and B) treating the relationship by way of investment!
So here is where we come full-circle with a line of inquiry for our discussion here:
How many of us have experienced something similar to this either in ourselves or in others in a leadership position?
What changes did you see in yourself or the other person?
What did the changes in behavior or approach provide for in other areas of professional development (change in workplace dynamic etc.).
If this has not been something you have seen very often, why might it be the exception than the rule? What is so hard about approaching professional relationships in a more authentic and consistent basis?