Snap judgments

Snap judgments are quick assessments of a person, situation, or event based on limited information. While snap judgments can be useful in certain circumstances, they can also lead to errors and perpetuate biases. This is especially problematic when snap judgments are made about someone’s character instead of their behavior or actions.

In fast-paced situations, snap judgments can allow us to make quick decisions without the time and effort of thorough analysis. Additionally, snap judgments can also be useful in assessing the immediate danger of a situation and responding accordingly.

However, snap judgments can often lead to errors and misperceptions due to the limited information on which they are based. People are prone to making snap judgments based on personal biases, stereotypes, and prejudices. This can result in unfair or unjust treatment of others and perpetuate discrimination.

Our continuing challenge is to manage and audit our thoughts and feelings and discern: are we in control of our decisions, or are we slaves to our biases?

Mark 6:1-6. “Is he not the carpenter, the son of Mary, and the brother of James and Joseph and Judas and Simon? And are not his sisters here with us?” And they took offense at him.

[DAILY GOSPEL INSIGHTS AND REFLECTION FOR MANAGEMENT AND ORGANIZATION 2023-032: FEBRUARY 1, 2023]

To lead is to gain insight into the unseen

The story of Jesus casting out a legion of demons from a man living in the tombs highlights the importance of taking time to look beyond what is initially visible. It is the role of leaders and mentors to seek out underlying issues that may be preventing people and organizations from reaching their full potential.

The organizations of today may not necessarily be fighting against literal demons, but we face many restraining forces such as fear, politics, or reluctance to embrace change.

Thus, the vocation of a leader is to accompany and heal beyond what is immediately apparent. To lead is to gain insight into the unseen.

Mark 5:1-20. When he got out of the boat, at once a man from the tombs who had an unclean spirit met him.

[DAILY GOSPEL INSIGHTS AND REFLECTION FOR MANAGEMENT AND ORGANIZATION 2023-030: JANUARY 30, 2023]

On the perspective and reality of stillness

When Jesus exclaimed, “Quiet! Be still!”, was He addressing the disciples, the wind itself, or both?

In a way, our perspective can influence our experiences and the context that surrounds us. The challenge is to remain centered no matter how turbulent the storm may seem.

Who knows, maybe the turbulence is just an invitation for us to dance with the wind.

Mark 4:35-41. “Quiet! Be still!” The wind ceased and there was great calm. Then he asked them, “Why are you terrified? Do you not yet have faith?”

[DAILY GOSPEL INSIGHTS AND REFLECTION FOR MANAGEMENT AND ORGANIZATION 2023-028: JANUARY 28, 2023]

On finding purpose and spaces for growth

To gain insight into our personal mission is also to gain insight into which space we are meant to be in.

Maybe the challenge of educators is not just to transfer knowledge but, just as important, to accompany students in finding their niche and spaces where they can flourish the most.

Mark 4:21-25. “Is a lamp brought in to be placed under a bushel basket or under a bed, and not to be placed on a lampstand?”

[DAILY GOSPEL INSIGHTS AND REFLECTION FOR MANAGEMENT AND ORGANIZATION 2023-026: JANUARY 26, 2023]

Witnessing weddings

The first wedding I’ve ever witnessed was that of my kuya, which was almost a decade ago already. Fast forward to today, I’ve been married for almost two years. Mika and I are expecting our baby this March, so fortunately, we were still able to go to the weddings of my friends these past few days (yep, two weddings in one weekend). Buti naisingit pa bago manganak!

There’s something different about witnessing my friends (who feel like my brothers, too) get married. Against the backdrop of the then high school teenage angst and heartbreaks, weddings can feel like sweet endings and exciting new beginnings. Witnessing my blood relatives get married feels like being part of a growing family; witnessing friends get married feels like having adulting partners while letting go of our childish selves. It’s a bittersweet but timely goodbye to our innocence. No regrets, only fond memories and excitement toward a grown-up future.

There’s something fulfilling and comforting in knowing that my friends would end up with amazing partners in life. It’s like having the assurance that your friends-turned-brothers are in good hands.

And as each other’s wingmen, we have done the job, and we can gracefully retire that part of our barkada alter-ego! Haha!

—
Mark 3:31-35. “Who are my mother (and father) and my brothers (and my sisters)?”

[DAILY GOSPEL INSIGHTS AND REFLECTION FOR MANAGEMENT AND ORGANIZATION 2023-024: JANUARY 24, 2023]