A Gentle Reminder About Directions and Human Understanding
When someone says, “You can’t miss it,” they usually mean well. But for many people, those words can lead to confusion, frustration, and even a sense of exclusion. What seems simple to one person may feel like a maze to another, because we all see and process the world differently.
Navigational struggles aren’t just about getting lost. They reflect something deeper: how often we assume that our perspective is the only one that matters. People with visual impairments, learning differences, or those unfamiliar with an area may find “obvious” instructions anything but. What’s clear to one person—“turn at the big oak tree”—can be vague or invisible to someone else.
To truly help others, we need to communicate with care. Clear, specific directions that consider someone’s background, needs, or abilities can make all the difference. Instead of saying “you can’t miss it,” we might try, “It’s two blocks past the grocery store on your left—if you reach the gas station, you’ve gone too far.” Little changes like this open doors to greater understanding.
Inclusivity also means acknowledging cultural and linguistic differences. Some cultures rely more on landmarks than street names. Others may find idiomatic phrases confusing. And some individuals—especially those with ADHD, autism, or dyslexia—might benefit more from visual cues than verbal ones. Flexibility and compassion in how we give directions can bridge these gaps.
At its heart, giving directions isn’t just about helping someone reach a place—it’s about meeting them where they are. When we slow down, listen, and choose our words with empathy, we turn an everyday interaction into an act of kindness. And in doing so, we make the world a little easier to navigate—not just physically, but emotionally too.
A Few Words to Reflect On:
“The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place.” – George Bernard Shaw
“If you think you are too small to make a difference, try sleeping with a mosquito.” – Dalai Lama
“Don’t be afraid to be amazing.” – Anon.
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