| Too often we... enjoy the comfort of opinion without the discomfort of thought - John F. Kennedy You've undoubtedly heard the term critical thinking which is done objectively. I once heard a wise sage say that there is a lot of power in objective thinking. Objective means thinking based upon verifiable information that is based upon facts and evidence. Subjective thinking means information or perspectives based on feelings, opinions or emotions. Humans are not prone to be objective. They are more prone to be subjective. Ever heard the phrase love is blind? People typically focus on themselves. And subjective thinking has an agenda whereas objective thinking does not. If you saw your coworker who you know is doing something wrong, but you ignore it because you like the person is an example of subjective thinking. There is more than the experiences and perceptions we go through. Objective thinking has no agenda. It is much greater and stronger than subjective thinking. An objective person cannot be intimidated or manipulated. Being subjective makes you vulnerable to personal attacks, whereas being objective does not. Have you ever done something in retaliation to a coworker or boss because they pissed you off? That is the wrong way of thinking. I know people that were at the receiving end of such treatment and it's wrong. Further, it creates a toxic workplace. A toxic workplace is very hard to get rid of. By being more objective, you are focused on the objective reality not the subjective. Subjective thinking causes damage. You have to get past that. Learn to be more objective in your thinking and less subjective. It will create a healthier workplace environment and a better you. Helen Roush is Executive Vice President of Paperitalo Publications.   |