(Distinctions are subtleties of language that, when gotten, cause a shift in a belief, behavior, value or attitude.)


A phrase which gets bandied about is, “It’s just common sense.”

The implication, by the bandier, is that because it’s clear to them it should be clear to everyone and if someone else doesn’t see what they see, well then they’re wrong/stupid/mean/dishonest. The ‘common sense’ label is frequently a weapon of argument. (Given its wide use I guess that could make it a weapon of mass destruction.)

But an awful lot of ‘common sense’ isn’t accurate though it is common practice to say it is. Sense, real sense, facts, intelligence, logic, and an awareness thereof, isn’t all that common. Look under the thin veneer of a popular sound bite and frequently you find no substance. Particularly if the ‘common sense’ is infused with emotion like fear or anger. A common practice doesn’t make something accurate.

So the next time you think that something you think is ‘common sense’ use that awareness to pause and ask yourself if it’s true or have you just bought into a common practice.


Coaching Point: Does that make sense?


Copyright 2022 Steve Straus. All rights reserved.