Beware of the know-it-alls (ultracrepidarians)… With that being said, did you know that wheat grass can take under two weeks to be ready for use? Conversely, the Baobaba tree begins bearing fruit when it is 200 years old, and it can live well over 1000 years. It pays to know the timeline for the final editable product. Likewise, if we use the final edible product metaphorically to represent information that makes us feel uneasy, it would be wise to deliver the information differently. Presenting information that makes us feel uneasy to people involves a considerable amount of patience or acceptance or you will lose their attention.
Consider the way you receive information that makes you feel uneasy. Sure, the information may be required and/or beneficial but that does not mean it will be received by any stretch of the imagination. I once heard a great presenter say, “Know your audience” and, “Whenever you provide information there are always three types of people in the audience.
1. The hostage (feels stuck).
2. The vacationer (feels indifferent).
3. The willing participant (Feels engaged).
Your goal should be how to convert some of the first two (hostage and vacationer) into the latter (willing participant).
Consider what is in it for them, because if you do not, you may lose them before you start. Once the person receiving the information classifies it as making them feel uneasy, divergent thoughts begin to percolate. Never-the-less, to be heard as you deliver this type of information, it would be wise to have a plan. The plan must require a way of addressing ultracrepidarians, because if their competing information on the topic is different watch out.
Aristotle said, “It is the mark of an educated mind to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it.” Use the wisdom of Aristotle as your rudder to steer your conversation to higher ground.
Ultracrepidarians are the know-it-all types. Ultracrepidarians are defined in the Oxford dictionary as, “a person who expresses opinions on matters outside the scope of their knowledge or expertise.” I assure you they are represented in all corners of our society. To be knowledgeable of your subject matter alone is not enough to overcome the challenges of reasonably engaging this type of individual. However, if you do, proceed with caution. Provide the information with an open mind understanding that you can always learn from anyone, even if it is what not to do.
Accept the fact that you may not inspire any dynamic changes providing them with information that will make them feels uneasy. Be patient with the intended audience and give them a safe space to “see for themselves.” Provide this information like you would provide care for the Baobaba tree…plant the seed of information and know that it may take a long time for it to bear fruit.
NOTE: I believe this is an awesome calendar. I would encourage you to check it out it has lots of valuable information.
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