Alaskan Pause: Story and Reflection

One fall, 17 years ago, as I was driving in my new state of Alaska, I was in a bit of a hurry (as was a natural state for me at the time). So you can imagine, I was a bit annoyed when the line of cars in front of me didn't move when the light turned green.

The middle lane was empty, so I decided to go around these people who evidently had nowhere to be. I had just enough time to hit my breaks and avoid an actual environmental impact of momentous proportions.

Who knew moose cross at intersections?! It was an important lesson. It's not just that moose always have the right of way, but how easy incorrect assumptions are. Combine assumptions to reactions, and well - it can spell disaster.

Reflection: How do you slow down, recognize an assumption, and question it? What will help you pause? How can you decide to move into curiosity to improve your day and your experience?

I now like to approach cars that aren't moving with curiosity. "I wonder why they're not moving?" I'm interested, so take the time to try to understand. This is very helpful, especially when applied broadly to all people and situations.

It's a work in progress for sure, but it's always rewarding. Curiosity helps us grow as humans, make connections, create a psychologically safe place for others, and usually get better results for all involved.

After all, curiosity saved the moose. 😉