Perspective is Hard!
Wednesday, January 16, 2019 - Joe Kiedinger
Looking out of my hotel window in Puerto Rico, I peered upon this small arena. On Saturday night, the parking lot was packed!
“Cockfighting…isn’t that illegal?” I wondered.
I inquired at the front desk about the arena. They assured me that cockfighting is, in fact, a very popular “sport” in their culture.
“But, this is America too, isn’t it?” I thought to myself.
It got me thinking. Gaining a new perspective is really hard! To form a new perspective about things that are completely foreign to us is formidable. Yet, at work every day, we need to understand an employee’s or a client’s perspective. Sometimes it’s really difficult and other times we kind of give up and think, “I just don’t get it. They’re weird!”
Perspective is about listening and researching. I have come to know that with the right data and open-mindedness, a person can gain a new perspective and some understanding. Once the research and traditions are understood, the brain relaxes, new synapses fire, and new connections are made. It’s kind of rewarding!
So, the next time you find yourself scratching your head and judging a situation, get curious. Ask better questions, do some research, and grow your understanding of the world. After all, there are things about you that others need to process as well.
Joe Kiedinger
ACTION PLAN: Do your research and listen. Grow your knowledge and influence.