Quite frequently, we don’t seem to be able to find out what we really know, and sometimes we have blind spots and don’t realize what’s going on out there. The “Johari window” is a psychological model used to align what we know or don’t know about ourselves with what others know or don’t know about us. In the model, there is a category known neither to us nor others, and there is an area known to others but not ourselves – our blind spot.
We should strive to reduce these areas by asking for, receiving and offering feedback. Seeing yourself through the eyes of others gives both insight and perspective.
I believe the same is true for businesses. At so many companies, colleagues don’t seem to be able to navigate, and there is a lack of shared information and knowledge. Departments work in silos and are preoccupied with reinventing what already exists. The “not invented here”-syndrome is real, and there seems to be a reluctance to adopt experiences and ideas from others.
Hence, I believe it is an essential task for any learning organization to accumulate knowledge. We should always try our best to increasing the knowledge of others. This can be done by offering support, reaching out, and establishing forums and groups where we try to learn fast and build on what we have.
I also believe we need to study what’s happening around us with an open mind: with our customers, clients, competitors and markets. Since change is the only constant, we need to understand the current and the drift. We need to see ourselves through the eyes of others and always be obsessed with learning and making sure to reduce our blind spots.
Consumers may have blind spots as far as personal finances are concerned. We can help them understand.
We know that consumers may have blind spots as far as personal finances are concerned. Denial is not a good strategy for financial health. What matters now is to understand the current situation and make a plan.
To our customers, I would like to say: We can help you understand what is the best thing to do. So my appeal is to reach out to us. It is better to do it sooner rather than later. That can be the difference between safe and sorry. We will always support you as you work through your issues. And as you master your personal finances, we will certainly root for you. And I guarantee that a bit of guidance, support and structure will be a benefit and not a burden.
We help you make it!
Klaus-Anders
