50 Million Elvis Fans Can't Be Wrong

Image by S. Hermann & F. Richter from Pixabay

Many times, there’s a real value to contrarian thinking. 

In investment terms, the best time to buy is when the market is down and everyone is running for the doors. Or, in personnel terms, placing a bet on the young up-and-comer who’s been committed and loyal to the cause, when conventional wisdom says to go out and hire an established name.

But there are times when the contrarian approach doesn’t make sense, and despite our desire to do what we feel is right, we need to accept that we might actually be wrong.

This is most prominent in perceptions and decisions that relate to people. We generally believe people operate in good faith and the way they interact with us is how they interact with others. So, when we’re comfortable working with them, we assume everyone else is as well. 

When we get feedback that suggests otherwise - that is, when everyone around us doesn’t share our (positive) view of a colleague - then, we’re surprised. (Especially when we are that colleague.)

We might rationalize the situation or make excuses. We’ll discount the feedback or justify the behavior. After all, our judgement can’t be so far off?

Of course, this might even be the right thing to do in specific circumstances. 

But when the feedback is consistent, when it’s repeated, then it’s important we take note: Maybe, our perspective is wrong. Maybe we’re the ones who need a rethink. If everyone else has the same view and shares consistent feedback about this individual, then maybe they’re right.

It’s certainly possible that your contrarian view is right, but it’s more likely that it’s not. 

After all, 50 million Elvis fans can’t be wrong.