Category Archives: Communication

#149 Point of view

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It is critical to have a point of view. The world around you wants to know what you think. The world also wants to know if you have an open mind and will be ready for alternative viewpoints.

The paradox created by these expectations has led to a lot of confusion. Some of you and your co-workers take a stand and stubbornly stick to your guns because you “need to have a point of view” and it’s a “matter of principle.” Others go with the flow, try to say “yes” to everything and appear weak and spineless. But in their mind, they have an open mind and are ready for alternate viewpoints.

The words of Obi-Wan ring true, “Luke, you will find that many of the truths we cling to depend greatly on our own point of view.”

A point of view provides a solid footing. Watch professional athletes, most of their power comes from a wide stance and balance. Also watch them change their feet and adjust, either to their opponent (martial arts) or to what their opponent does (tennis) or to their own plans (soccer).

Yes, you must have a point of view. Without that, your value in the workplace is diminished. The point here is to be mindful of your point of view so you know when it makes sense to be open. And  please, no clinging. Yes, that is a point of view (pun intended).

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#147 We are all curators

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I am not sure how many of us have truly original ideas. Once you research a body of knowledge, you’ll find that everything that needs to be said about a subject has been said, the ones who say it later, are just saying it differently. Truly “breakthrough ideas” are few and far between, the ones that are really “something out of nothing.”

Does anyone really “invent” anything or do we all “discover?” The practical application of the question is, when you have an insight, don’t go running thru the streets, naked like Archimedes, shouting “Eureka!” Take the time to find out if others have had the insight before you. It is more realistic to acknowledge that you were not first with the idea, but you can claim credit to be the first to present it in an interesting, simplified, and practical way.

There is a huge market for folks who can execute. The supply of true innovators is very limited. The invention itself does not produce value. It is the hard work to convert the invention to a useful solution, and make something happen, that produces value.

So… if you don’t have an original idea, don’t feel bad. Become a curator! Be sure to study copyright laws and don’t plagiarize.

Be a curator of your own thoughts. Well researched and experienced based insights will always be respected over the rant of individuals who lack self awareness.

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