Curiosity in Corporate Culture: Lessons from an African Safari
ORBITINDONESIA.COM – On a life-changing safari across Africa, an unexpected lesson emerged: the transformative power of curiosity in understanding diverse cultures.
In workplaces, snap judgments often lead to cultural clashes. Leaders frequently criticize differences without understanding the underlying values and traditions. These assumptions hinder collaboration and empathy within organizations.
During a three-week journey through Africa, the author observed the profound impact of storytelling and cultural understanding. This experience highlighted the gap in corporate environments, where curiosity and empathy are often overshadowed by quick judgments. The safari facilitated a deeper appreciation for diversity, sparking insights applicable to leadership and organizational culture.
Imagine if organizations adopted the African tradition of storytelling to foster empathy and understanding. By asking 'In our culture...', leaders could encourage a more inclusive and curious corporate environment. This approach could transform the workplace into a 'boma', a space for community and collaboration.
Choosing curiosity over judgment can redefine leadership and enhance human connections. As workplaces evolve, embracing diverse cultures and encouraging storytelling could lead to more resilient and empathetic organizations. In our quest for better workplaces, let's start with curiosity: 'In our culture...'
(Orbit dari berbagai sumber, 22 Oktober 2025)