We all have filters.  Those filters have real value -- if we didn't have filters we would be quickly overwhelmed by all the inputs around us.  As such, we only really absorb a small fraction of all the information that bombards us constantly.  But how do we make those choices?  

People are fond of saying "I have to see it to believe it".  It's not true.  Chances are that if you don't believe it (or believe in it)... you will look right by it and never actually see it.

YOU ONLY SEE WHAT YOU ALREADY BELIEVE.  As humans, one of our strongest drives is what's called "confirmation bias".  That means you look for things that confirm what you already believe, often times completely overlooking the contrary.  

Be careful - this will effect your whole life and can really skew how you see yourself and those around you.  It will absolutely isolate you from alternative views and further close your mind (think the Google and Facebook algorithms -- they only show you what agrees with your already held views).  

I've attached a very elegant demonstration of how the same data can be viewed in multiple ways... and they are clearly all correct.  Perhaps the politicians could learn something from this as well....

Open your mind ... see alternatives ... solutions might be right in front of you!

Recently I had the opportunity to present to one of my networking groups  -- thanks to ABA-NY and Ellen Volpe for providing me the forum.  I've attached a 4 minute video addressing some of the challenges of the Holiday Season and some things to pay attention to.

Happy Holidays!

Last night I was lucky enough to receive the Achievements in Health Care Award from the Long Island Business News.  A very cool honor to be amongst a long list of distinguished healthcare people!  I've attached a grainy video from the event, if you want to watch a little.  Thanks to everyone who supported this effort - it's much appreciated.  Happy Holidays!