As a reforming procrastinator, I identify with Calvin. But what we're going to talk about is chronemics, not procrastination.

Chronemics refers to the role of time in communication. The two basic orientations are monochronic and polychronic.

​Monochronic cultures, such as in the USA, time is linear. Output is prioritized so, wrapping up projects and punctuality are important. You may hear phrases like, "time is money," and "Early is on time. On time is late" in monochronic environments.

​Polychronic engages in many things at one time. With juggling so many balls, deadlines are flexible and breaks are welcomed. Think "Island time" and "mañana, mañana" mentality.

​Read an example of how cultures view deadlines differently.









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As interculturalists, it is imperative to assume positive intent in conflict situations where there is miscommunication,

Positive intent embraces the notion that people are making the best choices, with the best of hopes, with the best of their resources, to the best of their abilities. Essentially, instead of believing people are "out to get you," you give them the benefit of the doubt. 

This is not "letting people off easy" or being naive; it's recognizing our human inability to know other people's true motives. This is hard work but important work for three key reasons:

1. Assuming positive intent allows us to reframe the conflict. Bernard Mayer says reframing is the ability "to maintain the conflict in all its richness but to help people look at it in a more open-minded and hopeful way." It's deeper than looking at conflict from a different perspective. It separates the person from the problem and focuses on the miscommunication or misunderstanding that needs to be address.

2. Assuming positive intent puts us in a position to consider that maybe the person is not "stupid, spiteful, evil" but has limited information, resources, or preoccupations which validated the actions or inaction s/he has taken. When knowledge and information is incomplete, behaviors may seem questionable to those with a fuller understanding

3. Positive intent recognizes we are imperfect people and to quote the truism, "Interculturalist are never perfect; they are forgiving." Assuming positive intent in others allows us to extend the same grace to ourselves when we make a mistake.

Book Recommendations:
Getting to Yes: Negotiating Agreement Without Giving In by Roger Fisher and William L. Ury
Communication Highwire: Leveraging the Power of Diverse Communication Styles by Dianne Hofner Saphiere, Barbara Kappler Mikk, and Basma Ibrahim Devries

Thanks for stopping by and getting to know me more intimately.

Let's start with introductions! These are a few of my favorite things:

Foods
Cheese, Bread, Roti Canai, Lahmacun, Spicy Sichuan Eggplant

Films
The Incredibles, In The Mood for Love, Bella, Remember the Titans, Rush Hour

Animals
Birds, Zebras, Elephants, Turtles, Giraffes