People’s perceptions are their reality of you. My husband and I were invited to a social gathering where he mentioned I used to be a Home Ec. teacher. Immediately, I saw people’s expressions change and they began apologizing for the food, their home not being clean enough, etc. I tried to reassure them saying it was a long time ago and I never was the ‘typical’ Home Ec. teacher but it was too late. Their perception of me had become my reality.
Our perceptions are based on our past experiences, culture, values, and beliefs.
It can happen just that quickly. Something we say or do or even something we wear can trigger people’s belief system and past experiences. If a woman wears a low cut blouse to work, what impression does she make? If a man sits alone in a movie theater, what do people assume about him?
In my case, people felt I was critiquing their living and eating habits based on their own experience with a former Home Ec. teacher who left them feeling judged and inadequate. It no longer had anything to do with me.
Changing our perceptions takes awareness.
Once someone has a wrong perception, it is difficult to change. Why? Because often, they don’t take the time to get to know you because they cannot get past their misperceptions. Awareness of our past experiences, culture, values, and beliefs can influence our present reality about someone is the key. Then you can choose to learn more about them as a person. You may find someone who has a solution, is a great team member or friend.
Get solutions for your team by visiting www.workersmarts.com and follow Jean Brownlie on Facebook and Twitter.
Take care and work smart!
Jean Brownlie helps businesses and organizations attain increased levels of job satisfaction, cooperation, and employee morale through customized, interactive trainings in the areas of relationships, communication, conflict management, and understanding personality types.
Jean works with subject matter experts to develop and update curriculum that fits your in-house training needs. Contact Jean for insights and suggestions.
