This month's newsletter is about our Perceptions.

Fall is just around the corner. Kids are back in school, summer projects may be put off until next spring and we don't like anyone reminding us that the "holiday season" is approaching.  It's a great time to take a look at how our perceptions influence our decisions and the actions that we take. 
 
Part of being human is to assess various situations using our observation skills to come up with conclusions that we believe to be true.  We then look for evidence that corroborates our conclusions.  The action we take is based on the belief that our perceptions are accurate. Let me give you an example that happened to me last week.
 
I went to the State Fair and had a great time.  I walked and walked and walked in the 100 degree heat congratulating myself on only eating a hamburger (with no fries) and a frostie ice cream cone.  It was dipped in yummy chocolate and started melting the minute I dove in.  Armed with several napkins, it became a contest to see how quickly I could lick the ice cream without having too much land on the pavement. Even though the nachos, fried zucchini and onions, and kettle corn beckoned me, I kept my resolve not to "pig out" and passed by those booths as quickly as I could. 
 
After about 2-1/2 hours, I felt like I couldn't take one more step and looked for a place to sit down.  I found this lovely spot away from the crowds in the shade.  My conclusion was this was a perfect place to rest.  As I observed my surroundings, I found evidence that this was a special place to relax.  Not only was I away from the crowds, I overlooked a beautiful waterway and fountain. There were brightly colored ducks and geese floating on the waterway surrounded by reeds and water lilies. From my perception, what could be better?
 
After about five minutes, I noticed that the "fowl" were not moving. At first I was concerned and then I looked more closely.  The ducks and geese were painted decoys! Part of my evidence was "fake".  I turned around and an elderly couple was sitting at a table watching me.  I laughed as I told them I felt a little foolish that I hadn't recognized the fake fowl.  They said the same thing had happened to them.  To my amusement, they told me they were timing me to see how long it took before I noticed. 
 
In coaching, we look at conclusions, observations and the evidence we collect to make them true. We all have times when we firmly believe that our perceptions are real.  The next time you find yourself thinking that your boss is jerk or your friend doesn't treat you right, stop for a moment and take a deep breath.  Ask yourself if the evidence you are gathering is accurate.  Do your perceptions reflect what is true?  You may find some room to allow other perceptions to reflect what is actually happening.

Sincerely,