It was nearing the close of my day and I leaned back to reflect. I suddenly found myself focused on several sayings that I had posted on the wall in front of my desk. I started rereading them and found myself asking why these statements had resonated with me. Why had I saved them? I began to chuckle to myself because they were all related to change and the human condition.
- “People exposed to the same information can often interpret it differently.”
- “Integrative thinking can resolve tension between opposing ideas and generate new alternative solutions.”
- “The edge is not the abyss. It’s the sweet spot for productive change.”
- “Explore the possibilities of opposition — the tension between the two can create superior ideas.”
- “Collaboration is an unnatural act committed by non-consenting adults.”
- And finally, “Humility makes it possible for us listen to others.”
I realized I had saved the sayings to help me understand change; appreciate the value of opposition and tension; find humor even in the struggle; and recognize that I had to let go of hubris and embrace humility if true, positive outcomes were more important than winning.