Perspective is Everything

Perspective is Everything

I once read a story about a ship’s captain out to sea.  He was in charge of a mighty ship and hundreds of sailors.

It was a foggy night and through the haze he saw the signal light from another ship.  He quickly realized the two ships were on a collision course.

So the Capitan signaled the other ship,” You are on a collision course with my ship change your course 10 degrees west”.

The response came back through the hazy air,” Change your course 10 degrees east”.

Somewhat aggravated the captain responded, “I am a ship’s captain with 40 years experience at sea change your course 10 degrees west”.

Quickly the response was “I am a first year seaman – change your course 10 degrees east immediately”.

The captain was furious the ships were only moments away from collision – he shot back an angry response “This is a 50 ton freight ship – for the last time, change your course”.

The response, “I am a lighthouse – change your course”.
 

Application

It is amazing how a new perspective can change everything.  My goal is to be able to distinguish the lighthouses from other ships.  

I think we waste too much time in meetings working to support our position when we should be listening for new ideas.  It is human nature to desire to have your ideas validated by others.  The need for validation, however, stands in the way of quality decision making. The group is best served if all perspectives are shared.  The team works best when all sides of the issue are examined.

Never presume your perspective is the best.  In fact, it is a good practice to assume your ideas are flawed so you can listen closely to the other perspective.  Then, after all the facts are in, you can make up your mind.  

I don’t want to waste my effort trying to move lighthouses.