Personal Experience Matters

Throughout life, we often encounter opinions about others—whether it’s about colleagues, leaders, or even public figures. People love to share their experiences, sometimes good, sometimes bad. While these insights can be valuable, I’ve come to realize that nothing compares to forming my own opinion through direct interaction.

This mindset wasn’t always natural to me; it was something I consciously developed over time. The first real lesson came during my university years when fellow students would caution me about certain professors. “Avoid this one,” they’d say. “Too strict, too demanding, too difficult.” Naturally, as a student eager to make the right choices, I took these warnings seriously.

But then, something unexpected happened. Some of the very professors I had been warned about turned out to be among the best I had. They challenged me, encouraged critical thinking, and pushed me beyond what I thought I was capable of. Had I listened to others and avoided their classes, I would have missed out on valuable lessons—both academically and personally.

This experience reshaped the way I approach people and relationships. Everyone has their own perspectives, shaped by their unique experiences, expectations, and circumstances. But personal interactions often reveal a different reality. I’ve since trained myself to listen, observe, and decide for myself rather than letting preconceived notions dictate my opinions.

In both professional and personal settings, I’ve applied this lesson countless times. Whether meeting a new colleague, working with a different team, or even forming friendships, I choose to experience things firsthand before passing judgment. And more often than not, this approach has led to meaningful connections and valuable insights.