UNITED WITHIN MYSELF
One thing we can all probably agree on is how divided the world can feel.
The need to find a common ground between people makes sense, but once I start thinking about the specifics, it starts to get tricky. Am I unifying around “your” idea or “mine”? I remember when I was working in fashion, the fast pace and soaring egos caused a lot of conflict. A difference of opinion easily ballooned into judgemental comments, leaving everyone involved feeling less open and generous.
Being totally honest... I was probably the source of the problem more than I’d like to admit! At times, I was convinced I had the best idea EVER and found it frustrating when others didn’t share my enthusiasm... but being humbled can be the best learning.
I realised that finding common ground with others begins internally. I try to reduce my ego with self-reflection – it makes it easier to hear other people! I once curated an exhibition that brought together different artists with varying points of view, which initially led to clashes and rising voices. With projects like this, it can be easy to think that removing the ego is the same thing as compromise, where everyone leaves feeling a little disappointed by the outcome.
But when I changed “my” perspective from ‘me’ to ‘all’. I found that others were more likely to follow suit and then something amazing happened - we all started “hearing” each other.
The final show created something that was much bigger than anything any single individual could have EVER done in isolation. I don’t think that unity means keeping your mouth shut. Isn’t it normal to debate and discuss with your family and friends? There needs to be trust before disagreements can be productive, but once our minds are open, tough conversations can make us all stronger.
Unity begins with me, the individual confronting the ego, and it demands bringing a willingness to learn. It's about finding strength from our own differences and extending that strength outward. I found that when I was united within myself, the ripple effect radiated out to the world and continues to do so.
Other Pause for Thought
