Everybody Does the Same Thing Differently

Two decades

After twenty years in international business and after having lived and worked in nine countries, I have learned some things. Maybe something. Singular. The first time I heard it was through my coaches at university as part of the management program I was enrolled in. Two decades later, experience allows me to fully endorse it.

EVERYBODY DOES THE SAME THING DIFFERENTLY

The Same Thing Differently
It is just one line: ‘Everybody Does the Same Thing Differently’. At the time, I thought it was important to remember, which was not difficult because I liked it. Click, in my head. Today, I am using it with my clients to develop international business. Equally important, if not more, I have learned to appreciate it at home with my family. As a Dutchman living in the USA, being married to my wonderful wife from Venezuela and with our three daughters born in three different countries, the meaning couldn’t be more relevant.

Business ≠ Business
The one-liner is relevant in all aspects of life and has a particularly strong meaning in international business. It helps people to challenge assumptions and realize that business is not business. It is very common for people in international business to mistakenly assume that everybody does similar things in a similar way.

The Journey Matters
It also may answer the question why goals in international business are not always met. The answer is quite simple. An international destination is not always reached, because the journey matters. If one can appreciate the different journey that others take, you have a better chance at ending up at the same destination together.

The Next Decades
If you like ‘Everybody Does the Same Thing Differently’, please share a thought, an example or a quick comment. You may trigger something with somebody for the next two decades.