The Yellow Yield Sign
Correction: Zen DeBrucke was the person who presented the exercise we discuss. I apologize for the error in the video.
During a ‘Writing Wednesday’ session with my good friend, author Sam Horn, I told her about my recent experience at the TLC (Transformational Leadership Council) event. At that meeting we were all asked, “What color is the yield sign on the streets?”
I invite you to watch this video for my answer.
Wow – was I surprised! Maybe you were, too. So why am I sharing this?
Because I think it’s important to realize that sometimes we may be thinking in a way that we are absolutely convinced is right, and we are not open to the possibility of the answer being any different than what we think it is.
For me, it was an opportunity to wonder “where else am I wrong?” The truth isn’t always what you think, even if you’ve thought that way for a long time. Things change. Check your assumptions and be receptive to what could be right and current now, instead of what you’ve been locked in to thinking in the past.
Have you had a similar experience? I’d love to read it, leave a reply below.
An interesting point to heighten our awareness of our assumptions.
But was this the best example to use? It’s not so much an assumption as a retained memory. Many of us are old enough to remember the yellow yield signs – similar to how a baby chick considers its mother the first thing it sees, regardless of whether that is a hen, a cat, or a human. It’s been imprinted on us. The sign’s shape and word clue us in more directly than the sign’s color.
Sally, I always find it interesting when someone finds fault in an example that points out something that is a surprising lesson to many people. Call it an imprint or whatever other word fits a narrative you are most comfortable with – it is an amazing thing to witness in a live audience.
The problem is in the LISTENING the difference is between CAUSHEN and YIELD! {SWONKY} thanks for your advise, you are appreciated. Perhaps I at 91 years, should be more thoughtful before I speak.
It’s a powerful reminder that being open to new perspectives and challenging our assumptions can lead to personal growth and a deeper understanding of the world around us. Change is constant, and sometimes it takes a shift in mindset to embrace what’s really current and true. Thanks for sharing this insightful reminder!