Disrupting Bias: A Journey Towards Understanding

As cross-cultural encounters have become more prevalent than ever, candid conversations about bias have become ever more critical to successful communication outcomes.

It's a common human tendency to easily point out biases in others while remaining oblivious to our own. This blind spot can be problematic because without awareness, there's no room for change. Acknowledging our biases is the first step toward disrupting them. Remember, it's not about completely eradicating biases – that's nearly impossible – but about learning not to act on those that are harmful or perpetuate stereotypes and prejudices.

Not all biases are inherently negative. For instance, choosing water over soda due to health preferences is a positive bias. However, the focus often falls on negative biases as they can lead to exclusion and discrimination. Understanding the difference helps us identify which biases need our attention and disruption.

To disrupt biases, we must be willing to engage with people and ideas that are different. This doesn't just mean interacting with people who look different but also those who think differently. It's about consciously choosing to hear diverse viewpoints and being open to feedback about our biases.

A practical approach to dealing with biases is to establish a 'success partnership' with someone you trust – ideally not a spouse or life partner due to the emotional complexities involved. This partner, perhaps a close friend, can provide honest feedback when you exhibit biases, and vice versa. The key is to offer this feedback privately and constructively, aiming to raise awareness rather than criticize.

These exchanges may have incremental impact, so be patient. For example, a friend of mine, a Baby Boomer, regularly criticized Gen Z adults who tinted their hair unnatural colors. There were times when I would hear him tell the person that hair color would impact their success in life, even though he did not know their career aspirations. Later, I gently provided feedback that the person is expressing their individuality and although my friend’s unsolicited advice may be correct, perhaps my friend should refrain from his criticism/feedback unless asked. Now when my friend sees someone with blue hair he just says, “That’s courageous.” I’m not sure my friend’s bias has changed, but at least he is now willing to respect the decision of others in this regard.

Disrupting biases is a continuous process that requires effort, awareness, and a willingness to change. It's about making a commitment to expand our perspective, choosing inclusive actions, and learning continuously about the diverse world we live in. By doing so, we not only enhance our personal growth but also contribute to building a more inclusive, collaborative communities.

Join my conversation about disrupting biases and share your experiences. Together, we can pave the way for a more inclusive future.

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