How we do it

“This is how we do things here.”

This phrase can be delivered in so many ways. It can be helpful. Generous. Welcoming. Instructive. Threatening. Alienating. Combative …

“This is how we do things here.”

This phrase can be received in so many ways. With relief. Surprise. Gratitude. Embarrassment. Offense. Fear. Anger …

As with much of language, there’s a lot of nuance. And intention plays a huge roll.

“You seem lost. I’d like to help you fit in easily,” versus, “You’re different. Get right or get out.”

How we do things is about culture and norms. How we communicate how we do things tells a lot about our desire to be welcoming, our capacity for empathy, and our ability to be flexible.