Jann's Blog: A Change of Perspective

Welcome

Learning is a never-ending journey. I've learned much from my mentors, from the wise sages in my life. I feel it is important to share and pass along some of what I have learned – and continue to learn. I believe we are all responsible for smoothing the path for those who come after us. And I know that we are all connected and here to support one another.

My purpose is to:

Improve organizational effectiveness through individual development

Improve individual effectiveness through organizational development

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A Change of Perspective

When I was in El Salvador, there was a quote that kept going through my mind. I have used this quote in my diversity work for years. It comes from the book Liberation Theology: An Introductory Guide by Robert McAfee Brown: "Where we stand determines what we see."

There was a scene in the movie Dead Poets Society where the teacher played by Robin Williams stands on the desk to make point about perspective. When he stands on the desk, everything and everyone looks different. As leaders, we should try to gain a new perspective by trying to see things in a new way. When we do this, we are demonstrating compassion and empathy for what others may see, think, or believe. How can we "stand" in a different place in order to have a new perspective?