Perceptions

There is a phrase “it’s not what you are looking at, it’s what you see,” attributed to many, including Thoreau and Homer Simpson.  I really like this adage. Take artwork, a movie, a book, a mural, a situation happening that involves a fight or dispute, and so forth. We all have different, often visceral reactions to what it is that is in front of us. With local government this could be a police interaction, a piece of public art, a proposed zoning variance for a new housing project, a client service meeting for a public assistance case - the list is endless. The different perceptions and contextualized, subjective assessments (based on our own life experiences) that come into play in these situations should be taken into account when you are managing a local government. This relates both to interactions with those we work for (elected officials) and engagement with residents, co-workers, and business owners. Staying mindful in these situations separates the emotionally intelligent leader from those that still need a little refinement in that area.