Author: Kushani Bandara
In a world filled with constant stimuli and rapid decision-making, many of us operate in a reactive mode — thinking quickly, acting swiftly, and rarely pausing to observe. Seba Haddad’s TEDx talk, “From Thinker to Observer,” introduces a profound shift in how we engage with life and ourselves, encouraging us to move from being thinkers to becoming observers. This shift aligns perfectly with our newsletter’s theme this month, “Awareness through Observation.”
Haddad’s key message revolves around the idea that while thinking is necessary, it often traps us in cycles of judgment and analysis. We make decisions based on pre-conditioned beliefs and biases, often leading to misunderstandings and misinterpretations of our experiences. Observation, on the other hand, is an invitation to step back, detach from automatic thought patterns, and see situations as they are, without the fog of judgment.
Relating this to our everyday professional and personal environments, how often do we jump to conclusions in conversations or assume we understand someone’s intentions without fully observing their words, tone, or body language? By merely thinking, we miss the depth of what’s in front of us. Shifting to observation allows us to witness interactions with greater clarity and empathy.
In his talk, Haddad highlights how practicing observation over thinking nurtures self-awareness. When we observe, we become more attuned to our inner world — our thoughts, emotions, and responses. This deepens our understanding of ourselves and helps us make more conscious choices, rather than reacting impulsively. Observation, then, becomes a tool for growth. By observing without judgment, we allow space for learning and self-development, a crucial aspect in professional environments where adaptability and communication are key.
This perspective is essential for fostering a growth-oriented workplace culture. Observation encourages us to listen actively and pay closer attention to feedback, which helps create an open environment where people feel valued and heard. Leaders, in particular, benefit from being observers rather than thinkers. Observing allows them to identify team dynamics, recognize unspoken challenges, and offer thoughtful support where needed.
The power of observation lies in its ability to cultivate deeper awareness, both within ourselves and in our interactions with others. As we embrace this shift, we can foster more meaningful connections and nurture a culture of continuous learning and growth, where awareness becomes the foundation of improvement.
This month, as we explore “Awareness through Observation,” consider how shifting from thinker to observer might transform your conversations, relationships, and growth.
