In part 4 of our Tools to Cope series, we are talking about navigating nuance: the recognition of complexity in communication.
What it is:
Nuance can be defined as slight differences in meaning or someone’s feelings that is not usually obvious. To understand nuance, we can look at its complete opposite with words like ‘monotone’, ‘similarity’, ‘uniformity’, and ‘conformity’.
Why it matters:
Real-world issues are often multifaceted and ambiguous.
People do not think in straight lines.
A wide vision of past and recent realities can lead to creative solutions.
How to cultivate it:
Understand the historical, political and cultural context.
Prepare by running different scenarios in your head – ‘what if…..’.
Look for common ground – shared values and goals.
Listen to all sides of an issue without judgment.
Gently question your own and others’ uncertainties.
Remain open-minded and be willing to consider alternative perspectives.
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