Context is Key to Understanding Everything

As a teenager the simple idea of context allowed me to get why so many arguments start, or confusion is created. I understand why so many arguments start, and it is often to do with a lack of understanding of context. You can be saying one thing, but people hear a totally different thing because of assumptions. I discovered that people can easily manipulate you, or unknowingly lead you into error if you are not dedicated to learning the context around a subject or topic. Context is what helped me throughout my school years when it came to studying.

Coming to think about it, context was the reason why Spark notes, which helped to simplify and break down the context of literary pieces, were so popular in my English classes. People lose interest easily when they do not understand the context of what they are reading. It is like walking into the middle of a conversation and hearing a sentence, then interpreting the whole conversation based on that sentence. It is not only confusing, but it is mis-guiding. That is exactly how I see the idea of context, I see it as a guide to understand anything. In order to really understand the industry you work in or want to get into, it is important to understand the history and origins of the industry. It is key to grasp what events lead up to the advances and changes in the industry. You have to know who the key people that shape thinking within the industry are, and what motivated or inspired them. These things help us to bring perspective, insight and clarity into what we do. It is difficult to build upon the shoulders of giants if you do not first understand the mind of the giants you want to leverage off. I think the reason many people do not take the time to put assumptions aside, or be patient enough to pursue understanding concerning the context of an issue, is due to laziness. It takes more effort, and it is easier to just say or do what you think. People that are more thoughtful, and observe context, are usually more productive. The best musicians in the industry would first study the greats that came before them, as a platform for how they wanted to develop their own art. The best business men understand the history and developments of the practice of business, their field, and economics. Context is important because it is the key to everything. Feel free to like this post, and share with others that may benefit. You can also give me a shout on twitter, I promise not to bite: @LesliePoku