Inside versus outside.
If you are a grade school student the difference between inside and outside recess is huge. Outside is fun. You can let your hair down, run around getting all of the ants out of your pants, work off a little energy and, hopefully, return to the classroom more receptive to focusing and learning. Inside recess probably means that it is either raining, snowing, or too cold to be outside and so the principal makes the announcement that "today is inside recess". Both the teachers and students dread this announcement because it means that everyone gets their style cramped during inside recess. The teacher may have to stay in a classroom with the students, supervising 'quiet' activities and the students have to be quiet in the classroom, using 'inside' voices instead of 'outside' voices and participating in low-energy activities.
Now, if I add just one letter to inside and outside, an 'r', the new words take on totally different meanings and connotations, don't they? Being an insider versus an outsider is nowhere near inside versus outside.
If I am an outsider, more than likely I feel alienated, disparaged, and/or excluded. I do not have an impression that I am worthy of being with those who are considered 'the insiders'. Very possibly, this is exactly the desired effect the insiders are striving to create. On the flip side, if I am an insider, I may feel as if I am 'in the know' and I may equate power with having information.
Perhaps you noted my use of the word 'may' in the above sentence. It was intentional. Those who see themselves as being insiders all too frequently see that as the optimal group to be in whereas those who think of themselves as outsiders view their perceived position as a detriment. I would argue that the position of outsider may (Yes, this word choice is intentional.) be more attractive and valuable than first believed.
If you see yourself as an outsider, consider these possibilities:
Expectations for you may be low. Surprise everyone.
Take the opportunity to watch, observe and formulate ideas.
Peering in from the outside offers a vantage point of neutrality.
Prepare your viewpoints, take notes and take note.
See yourself in a position of strength and leadership.
Be patient but when your opportunity arises, be prepared to articulate your thoughts.
Remember this: While some consider information as the ultimate power, real power is internal, not external. Power is not something given, it is earned, but never wielded in a powerful manner. Influence is more desirable than power but respect is the ultimate in influence. What resides inside us is far more effective than what and who grapple for dominance outside of each of us.
Ancora imparo
