The Art of Nuance
What is the art of nuance?
nuance \NOO-ahnss\ noun. 1 : a subtle distinction or variation. 2 : a subtle quality : nicety. 3 : sensibility to, awareness of, or ability to express delicate shadings (as of meaning, feeling, or value)
In leadership, this is being able to walk the fine lines between two opposites. In a way, to live in the gray and murky.
We live in a polarized world and our mind sets often become fixated on one side of any argument or concept. If you have watched the movie, the social dilemma, you can understand how we humans are becoming more biased and polarized. Nuance requires us to see both sides of the same coin and work with the light and shade that exists in all human relationships and therefore businesses.
It is fraught with danger to look for absolutes. The real skill in being able to “dance” with the absolute and the uncertainty that is our true reality. Some may see this as wishy washy, but really it is about being creative and adaptive.
The top 5 things that require nuance
Care for your people AND set clear boundaries and expectations
Set high expectations AND support and encouragement
Focus on logic AND emotion
Be Honest AND kind
To understand your own view, argue FOR the opposite