As One Columbia, we can achieve greatness. And at last week’s all-staff meeting, I announced a big goal — the $1 billion year. If we work together, it is both attainable and sustainable.
We also welcomed Amy Herman, who shared her insights on The Art of Perception: Rethinking How We See. Here is my list of takeaways from her presentation, which are relevant to both our professional and personal lives.
1. Be comfortable stepping away from what you know and be open to other people’s perspectives. No two people see anything the same way.
2. Refrain from saying “obviously” and “clearly.” Instead, try “It appears to me…”
3. Take a look at all of the information that’s available to you. You never know what’s going to be a game changer.
4. Likewise, you never know who you are going to meet.
5. Sometimes you’ll be dead wrong — and that’s OK.
6. Everything deserves a second look. Ask questions. And then ask them again.
7. Never lose your sense of humor.
8. Broaden your imagination through creativity and resourcefulness.
9. Seeing the big picture is as important as seeing the small details.
10. At the end of each day, look in the mirror and ask yourself, “What went well?” and “What went wrong?”
Thanks to these insights and the conversations you had at your tables, we’ll continue to strengthen One Columbia, build synergy between development and alumni relations, and improve internal communications.
Thank you for your participation. It was great being with all of you!
