COMMENTARY>>Looking through the eyes of others

By Chief Master Sgt. Anthony Brinkley
19th Airlift Wing command chief

Today, I’d like to give you something to ponder that may help you better communicate and connect with those around you.

Often we find ourselves frustrated with others because we primarily focus on what’s important to us while not considering the focus of those around us. When you communicate with others, do you listen to refute or do you listen to gain a better understanding?

From the household to the battlefield, communication is the lifeblood of everything we do. Yet, I submit to you that if we tried to gain perspective of why people see things the way they do, our dialogue would be more productive. Things such as life experience, background or environment contribute to how each of us views the world. How much do you know about the people you communicate with?

Think about the times you have tried to communicate with someone and they can’t seem to internalize what you’re trying to say. The challenge is helping them see why you can view the same picture through different lenses. You bridge the understanding gap by investing time and patience in getting to know those around you better. I promise if you show an interest in seeing things through other’s eyes, they will begin to do the same for you.

Sometimes you listen with your ears, and sometimes you listen with your eyes through observation. Sometimes you listen through understanding the experiences of others because our experiences form the way we see everything around us. When people see you are genuinely trying to understand them, they will make more of an effort to understand you. As leaders, followers and teammates, we owe it to one another to build upon our diverse background and grow together by looking through the eyes of others.

Combat Airlift!