UXL Blog

As we grow older, we might get wiser…or we might become more set in our ways! Sometimes, our openness and curiosity diminish, and we find ourselves with set preferences and perspectives. That can lead to shutting down others or making snap judgments about another’s ideas, behaviors, or points of view. And we might not even realize we’re doing it.

The Harm in Rigid Thinking

Being set in your ways limits you. You close yourself off to whole worlds of thinking, and you erroneously believe that your way is the “only” way or the “right” way. This can be damaging in any office setting, no matter the industry. And this can be doubly damaging if you are in a leadership position (either formally or as an informal team leader). Companies can never reach their full potential if ideas and perspectives are limited. Creativity and innovation is how you open new doors, reach new markets, and stay relevant.

Companies and leaders that live by “it’s always been done this way” are too inflexible to deal with any major changes. And the truth is, change is inevitable. Whether a company is dealing with a pandemic, changing market tastes, new technology, or any other foundation-shaking change, it’s necessary to roll with the punches, rethink the current system, and try new approaches.

Embracing Other Perspectives

This is why it’s so crucial to open yourself to others’ viewpoints and voices. When we make snap judgments, we close doors. When we’re uncomfortable with someone’s ideas, perspective, or even the way they are saying something, we might think or say things like:

“That will never work”

“No one will go for that”

“This isn’t in the spirit of the company” (Or: “this doesn’t embrace the company’s culture”)

“We don’t do things that way”

When you catch yourself closing to others’ ideas or making immediate judgments, it’s a good idea to pause. Acknowledge your bias or discomfort. Then, ask yourself, “What if…”

“What if this idea does have merit?”

“What if others agree, and I just haven’t realized it?”

“What if it’s time to reshape company culture?”

“What if the company can start modifying its approaches and try something new?”

The other important element in opening yourself to alternative perspectives is becoming an attentive listener. Instead of immediately coming up with a response, take the time to truly listen, absorb what is being said, and genuinely consider it.

Workplaces function best when everyone participates. When you promote a true “marketplace” of ideas, you open the door to all kinds of creative solutions, innovations, and new opportunities. As a leader, you play an important role in establishing the kind of open and welcoming atmosphere that considers new ideas, listens to everyone’s thoughts, and isn’t afraid to depart from the “same old” way of doing things. Start making an effort to open doors for others, instead of keeping them closed and locked.

MARGARET SMITH IS A CAREER COACH, AUTHOR, INSIGHTS® DISCOVERY (AND DEEPER DISCOVERY) LICENSED PRACTITIONER, AND FOUNDER OF UXL. SHE HOSTS WORKSHOPS FOR PEOPLE WHO NEED CAREER OR PERSONAL GUIDANCE. 
CHECK OUT MARGARET’S ONLINE LEADERSHIP COURSE. 

Tags: alternate viewpoints, better ideas and creativity, consider others POVs, margaret smith career coach, margaret smith leadership, open yourself to others perspectives, value others perspectives