Some of the smartest things ever said to me…
This isn’t a National Security / Sci-Fi Geek-Out post like I normally write on this blog. But, as it’s the first day of a new year, I thought I would recap some of the best ideas I have ever encountered.
“Most arguments are not about facts, they are about assumptions.” — Philosophy professor, c. 2003
This may not be as true in 2016 as it was in 2003. It seems that there are distinct worlds of facts for each faction in an argument now. But, when you are arguing with someone who is otherwise rational and is observing the world more or less how you observe it (not always the case), take a moment to think about the underlying assumptions they are using with their argument. Those are usually the areas with which you disagree, and there may not be any point in continuing the discussion. Or, you can reframe the argument and direct it at their assumptions and your own. See whose assumptions best account for the facts and allow for the possibility that it might not be your own.
“When you are interviewing someone, be comfortable in the silence” — Journalism professor, c. 2003
Don’t hurry to speak just to fill the silence. People generally are uncomfortable around silence. If you asked someone a question and they have provided a brief answer, embrace the verbal lull. They are likely to resume talking and you may get more information.
“War is an extremely inefficient use of resources” — Economics professor and Vietnam veteran, c. 2003
Pretty self explanatory. No one emerges from war in better shape than they were before going into it.
The Back Brief & The After Action Review (AAR)
If you have given someone a task, there is a chance that they will spend a lot of time doing something that you didn’t want done. In the military, once a task is assigned it is encouraged that the assignee explain the task in their own words. It’s an easy way to mitigate different interpretations of what success will look like. At the conclusion of the task, review what was supposed to happen, what actually happened, and ways to improve next time.
“Being a veteran doesn’t get you what you want, but it gets you on the 20-yard-line.” — Veterans’ group leader, c. 2012
A lot of people want to help veterans. There are a lot of benefits and advantages from government and private organizations. At the same time, you still need to work. But, you know you will start on the 20-yard-line while a lot of people aren’t sure where they will be getting the ball. Be thankful for that.
“In a job interview, try to convince them that you are going to make them money.” — Executive, c. 2012
This really works for more than just job interviews. You need to demonstrate the mutual benefit that your involvement in any project would provide, if you want to be a part of that project.
“Live in the moment.” — High school teacher, c. 2000
