It Is Easy to See Stupidity in Other People

It Is Easy to See Stupidity in Other People

Ever notice how easy it is to see stupidity in other people? That's because we judge other people's actions, and we justify our own. Instead of judging other people to be stupid, just take their actions as is. It is difficult to know why other people do what they do. There could be a number of reasons for their actions, and being stupid is only one of them.

A great example of this concept can be seen in driving. When someone pulls out in front of you, he or she is stupid. When you pull out in front of someone else, you didn't see the car, it was in your blind spot, or whatever else you use to justify the action. I have rarely been a passenger in a vehicle when the driver admitted that the right turn made from the left lane was stupid. There always is a good reason why the driver made that move. And I would guess that is true for most people.

The biggest thing I have learned from coaching is how easy it is to see what other people are doing wrong in their lives and what is causing the problem. The reason I can do this is because I have the bigger picture of my client's life, what I call "the bird's eye view." My client is too close to what is going on and has what I call "the grass blade view." People don't do stupid things on purpose; they do them because they don't see the bigger picture. They are too close to the situation to see exactly what is going on.

Coaching

We have all done stupid things. Instead of constantly judging others, give them the benefit of the doubt and move on. The good news is that most stupid things people do don't end up causing major harm. Instead of worrying about the stupid things other people are doing, pay attention to what you are doing and do your best not to do too many stupid things yourself.

Coaching Question

Are you judging others and justifying your own behavior?

Daily Action

Today, refrain from judging the actions of others as stupid and pay attention to your own actions.

Quotes

"When a stupid man is doing something he is ashamed of, he always declares
that it is his duty." George Bernard Shaw

"The sense of humor is the oil of life's engine. Without it, the machinery creaks and groans. No lot is so hard, no aspect of things is so grim, but it relaxes before a hearty laugh." George S. Merriam