UXL Blog

It’s easy to walk through life without truly seeing others. We get so caught up in our own lives, our own circles, that we often fail to see the people who are right in front of us—the cashier, the barista, the oil-change tech, the roofer, the mail carrier, the person behind the deli counter or bakery case. Whole communities of people often go unnoticed, supporting the lives of others through their work.

And then there are the people who are close to us, the co-workers we pass in the hallway, the family members with whom we share a dining table or the living room couch. We might notice these people in our daily lives, but how often do we truly see them? How well do we know them?

From my perspective, the world would be a better place if we all made an effort to see those around us in a meaningful way, to see their humanity. What if we paused to say hello and ask how someone’s day is going? And what if we truly listened to the answer, instead of rushing through the interaction? What if we stretched outside our comfort zones and dared to get to know people outside our usual circle? What if we started noticing the people who make our everyday lives possible?

Why take the time to see others?

Far too often, people fail to see the incredible network of people who support them. The hotel room is magically cleaned. The package is delivered. The bread is baked, packaged, and placed on the shelf. By acknowledging these people and systems, we can gain a greater appreciation for how much collaboration and coordination it takes to make the modern world function. You, too, are a part of this system (even as “only” a consumer/customer), and hopefully someone is appreciating your contributions!

Beyond this miracle of cooperation, learning to see others can increase our empathy, dissolve fears and prejudices, and build community. While that may sound lofty, it’s absolutely true. The more you interact with people outside of your typical network, the more you will expand your worldview. You’ll see that most people have more in common with you than you might have realized. They have families and friends, they have children and siblings, they have hobbies and special interests, they root for a particular sports team, they have dreams for the future. And you’ll probably also realize that most of us want the same things: security for our families, good food, laughter, close friends, moments of excitement and entertainment, a comfortable bed.

In short, seeing the humanity in others can help us be better neighbors and citizens. If we dare to lift our eyes to truly see the people in front of us, we can open ourselves to new worlds and perspectives. If more people made an intentional effort to see others, can you imagine how that might change the world for the better?

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.

Tags: learn to truly see others, learning empathy, Margaret Smith licensed Insights practitioner, Margaret Smith life coach, walking in others shoes