Small change: remember the human

The philosopher Martin Buber suggested that human interactions fall into two types. The first is ‘I:thou’. This is where we engage in an exchange that is characterised by a mutual acknowledgement of shared humanity. Recall any conversation with a valued friend: it is almost certain to have been I:thou in nature.

The second type of interaction is ‘I:it’. This is where the human being in front of us does not, in effect, register as one. An example of this might be the barista who we barely acknowledge as we order our morning coffee.

Most workplaces have many more I:it than I:thou interactions. Each of us can be prone to seeing others as little more than blockers or enablers to what or where we are trying to get. But if we fail to acknowledge the humanity of others, we shouldn’t be surprised when they don’t show a willingness to meet us in our needs.

Something to consider: where might fostering a sense of human connection serve me and those around me?

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