Perception and Leadership

​There's a saying we've probably all heard: “How we view things is how we do things.” This adage encapsulates the profound impact of perception on our actions and decisions. Have you ever viewed something in a particular way and then adapted your behavior accordingly? This idea ties back to the concept that perception is reality. Even though our perception may not always reflect the truth, it significantly influences our decisions. As a leader, this can lead to making the wrong decision based on the reality you think you see.
The other day, I was in Austin speaking at a leadership event. Before my session, I decided to head down to the lobby to get a coffee and reflect on my presentation. While in the elevator, a man stepped in and pressed the button for a floor just three levels down. My initial thought was, "Why didn’t he just walk?" But I quickly reminded myself not to judge.
A moment later, I noticed an unpleasant smell, clearly coming from the man in the elevator. As he stepped out, I eagerly anticipated reaching the ground floor to escape the odor. However, the elevator stopped at the next floor, and a group of people, wearing lanyards for the conference I was speaking at, entered. They immediately noticed the smell, and as we reached the lobby, one of them remarked, “I can’t believe that man did that.”
The perception was clear: they thought the man who exited earlier was responsible for the smell. What they didn’t realize was that I would be speaking at the conference in an hour. When I walked on stage, who did I see sitting at the front table? The three men from the elevator. As I began my speech, I noticed their faces registering recognition and perhaps a hint of embarrassment. After the session, we shared a laugh about the incident.
This experience reminded me that how we view things directly influences our actions. The men in the elevator made a snap judgment about the source of the smell, which affected their perception of the situation. Similarly, as leaders, our perceptions shape our decisions and behaviors, impacting those we lead.
As leaders, it’s crucial to be aware of our perceptions and recognize that they may not always reflect reality. Our judgments can affect our decision-making, sometimes leading to misguided actions. It's essential to challenge our perceptions, seek out different perspectives, and be open to new information.
One way to mitigate the impact of flawed perceptions is to create a habit of reflection and adjustment. Take time to reflect on your decisions and the perceptions that influenced them. Ask yourself if your views were accurate or if they were clouded by biases or incomplete information. This practice can help you become more aware of your thought processes and improve your decision-making over time.
In leadership, perception is a powerful force. It shapes how we interpret situations and influences our actions. By being mindful of our perceptions and actively seeking to understand the reality beyond our initial judgments, we can make better decisions and lead more effectively. Remember, how we view things is how we do things, so let’s strive to see clearly and act wisely.