#144

I have, over the last few months, been thinking about perspective more so than usual.

With regard to various events, including the current Covid-19 pandemic and the repercussions thereof, one often hears “We are all in the same boat.” More recently, I have become aware of this being rephrased as, “We are in the same storm, but not in the same boat.”

This subtle rephrasing reflects the notion that each and everyone has different personal experiences and, as a result, brings differing knowledge and understanding to the same issue or similar situation. It is evident - and especially now as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic - that families around the world are dealing with a wide range of concerns. Most obviously, these include social-emotional, physical, and financial concerns and correspond with the lower layers of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs (psychological needs and safety needs). With so much uncertainty in the world at large, Maslow before Bloom has been a common refrain in schools around the world and has also appeared as a title or reference point in various educational articles over the last few months.

The following images remind me - in both personal and professional interactions - of the importance of being cognisant of differing perspectives and/or the experiences and understanding of others:

Sources: unknown

It is evident that each person is, from their own perspective, correct; yet - in the eyes of the other - they are not and thus there is a disconnect.

It is always important - and especially so now as we not only continue to navigate during these most unusual times, but do so without there being a clear end in sight - that we are increasingly aware that despite there often appearing to be one right answer or a single perspective, there may indeed be a differing perspective, a disconnect or a discrepancy.

As shared in previous posts, Simon Sinek’s quote, “Leadership is not about being in charge. Leadership is about taking care of those in your charge” is one that resonates deeply with me. In thinking about the phrase, “We are in the same storm, but not in the same boat”, how can you - mindful of perspectives - best support and take care of those in your charge during these challenging times?