How to See Things Around You

We have all heard the expression, "there is a difference between hearing and listening."  The same can be said about seeing and understanding.  Many of us are so focused on one particular item that we miss the big picture.  If you are in a position of responsibility, like that of a boss, supervisor or teacher, this article is important for you.

Ask yourself this question.  How many times has someone said to you, "Did you see that?"  "Did you see what she did?"  All you can say is, "no I missed that."  It is very important to try and see and understand everything that is happening around you.  Many times we miss the little things that could be so important to us and those that we are responsible for.

As a teacher, the first thing that I did each day was observe the physical being of each student.  Without saying anything, I would look for bruises and scratch marks on each student.  This type of observation would quickly let me know if this student was being bullied or abused.  I would often do this, as students would stand to recite the "Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag."  My students never knew that I was doing this.

Many times a supervisor or boss will walk into the work place to exchange ideas and communications with employees.  They are so focused at the task on hand that they miss the important little things that are going on.

How can a supervisor see everything going on?  They can't.  However, they can make a mental notation of changes.  How can they do this?  In many ways, it is like driving your vehicle.  You always pan the scene in front of you to get a 180 degree look at the road ahead.  You notice small movements, color changes in stop lights, roadside signs, pedestrians, small animals, hidden driveways, road construction and oncoming traffic.

As a supervisor, you do the same thing in the work place.  You might be talking to an employee.  However, you are constantly looking at THE BIG PICTURE.  You then zero in on the small things inside the big picture.  Are there things out of place in this picture?  If so, why?  Check out the personnel.  Are they where they are suppose to be?  Are they being productive?  More important, are they safe?

Once you have done this, look for the little things.  Are all tools being used in the proper location?  Are safety rules being complied with correctly?  You not only look at objects but, you look at procedures as well.  If the big picture looks okay, you can move on.

However, as you begin to leave, turn around and take one final view of the big picture.  Try to keep this final scene your head for future assessments.  Pay close attention to detail as best as you can.

This is how you learn to see and understand.  It is a major step in becoming an observant supervisor, boss or teacher.  Maybe you can't be observant as Sherlock Holmes, but you have taken steps to improve how you view things.

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