Cathy and I are long term members of the Optical Women’s Association. I am one of the founders of the OWA’s mentoring program so I always pay particular attention to OWA’s One Minute Mentor. I thought that the 12-07-2009 one by Jodi Groh was inspiring so here it is:
Visual Acuity – What Do We Really See? by Jodi Groh
I recently volunteered at a OneSightSM Vision Clinic and had the opportunity to participate in the visual acuity screening. Early in the day, LaShawn, a high school boy, came through. We tested his right eye, and the top line was a big blur. The same result for the left. LaShawn threw up his hands and said “I quit”.
I quit. That comment immediately tugged at my heart. I explained that we were all here so that by the end of the day he would be able to read not only the top line, but the lines below it. LaShawn looked at me with disbelief, and the skepticism in his reply of “Really?” still echoes in my thoughts today.
At some point in our lives, we all have that doubt in what we are doing. This doubt stems from many areas, including fear, low confidence, lack of resources or being afraid to ask for help. Or we tried in the past, and the outcome was not as we expected.
At some point in our lives, we also witness this in others around us. Sometimes we are aware of it and do nothing, and other times we are so caught up in our own doings, we are blind to the fact others are struggling.
Make it a point to improve your own “visual acuity”. When unsure of a job before you, ask questions or seek help or advice from others. A little push in the right direction can improve your productivity, your work, your own confidence.
Pay more attention to the actions and attitudes of friends, family and coworkers. Be proactive and offer assistance or an encouraging word. Take a little more time to explain a project and encourage open communication.
Unfortunately I did not see LaShawn before he left that day, but I know he departed with an improved outlook not only on the world around him, but on himself as well. Thank you, OneSight.
Jodi Groh is Marketing Director at Nanofilm.
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What a great piece! Simple and inspiring! It’s so easy to say “I quit” when the frustration mounts. Jodi reminds us that we’ve all been there and when we see someone having a similar experience, a little push or a little encouragement goes a very long way. Thanks for the wisdom, Jodi.