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October 26, 2005

TIP #37: Think Smorgasbord

We have different likes and dislikes. We can watch the same movie, read the same book, eat the same food and have distinctly different reactions.

If you follow someone in line at a smorgasbord, when you get to the checkout you'll find their food selection differs from yours. And while you both might have salads, the kind of lettuce, toppings and dressing you select are unique to your tastes, mood and needs. Likewise for them.

So why are we surprised at work when some bosses, clients, coworkers or staff like what we do and others don't? How can we get praise from one person and critique from another and it's the same work? Why do some people love your idea and others fight against it? Think smorgasbord.

When I get a bruised ego because someone doesn't like what I've done or what I'm suggesting, I find it helps to "think smorgasbord." This simple thought offers me perspective.

You see, we do have different experiences, different "eyes," different skills different knowledge and different goals. These can lead to different preferences and conclusions.

Just like I don't feel personally attached to what someone else chooses on their dinner tray, I've learned to understand work likes and dislikes in a similar manner. Try thinking smorgasbord the next time you find mixed messages happening to you.

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Posted by Nan Russell at October 26, 2005 04:00 PM