This is the first post in a series that I dedicate to the topic of improving ones skills by changing the way one looks at the world. It is inspired by a book called "How to think like Leonardo Da Vinci" by Michael Gelb, which shows that many principles we try to apply today were already know by the grand master of the Renaissance.

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There seems to be two schools of thought when it comes to judging people at work.

One of them classifies people as either

- the smart ones that are highly motivated, stellar in their job, get work done, grasp things quickly, communicate clearly - simply great people, fun to have around, or

- the slow ones, which are coming to work just to earn a living, only do what they're told, have difficulties articulating their point of view, and don't seem to get much done - simply the ones that are easily replaceable.

The other school of thought assumes that every person has a story, interests, talents, and capabilities. As such everyone can develop his skills, be satisfied with an experience, and is good at doing something aligned with his interests and motives.

Expressing the two positions this way, most people would probably agree that the latter view is more desirable in many ways - it's positive, fair, and optimistic. Yet, when reflecting on recent experiences at work, while shopping groceries, or sitting in a restaurant: Did you really think about the people your interacted with along that second school of thought?

When I listen to people around me I can't help but hearing more than just a bit of the first version, in which they are annoyed by people who are slower, less motivated, and not as cooperative as expected.

The distinction in my opinion is important. Not only because thinking one way or another defines on how you treat people, lead them, and honour their achievement. But also because it is probably a reflection of how you think about yourself - your skills, your achievements, your status, and your potential.

Furthermore, research suggests that only 48% of IQ (if one accepts this as a measure of intellectual capabilities) are genetically explained. The environment, prenatal care, education, and other factors account for the other 52% of a persons intelligence. Looking back at the above descriptions, it is easy to put people into buckets - but it is not only socially undesirable, it is also scientifically wrong. And it will definitely not improve their performance.

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Please share your comments and inputs (via comment function, twitter, e-mail, etc.). In my short write-ups I address topics that I am particularly interested in because they align with my values and beliefs. As such, they are always a reflection of my ideas, thoughts, and opinions. The only thing I am positive in that regard is that I do not have all the perspectives, all the knowledge, or all the facts - help me be better tomorrow.