Does Being Bilingual Make Me More Adaptable?
Are they connected?
When I speak Cantonese with my mom, my emotions flow passionately and intensely. If I'm not careful, impatience can easily surface, and I might even get angry. This side of me often surprises people because it's quite different from how I present myself in the corporate world.
For nearly 20 years, I’ve lived in Toronto, working in the corporate sector, where English is my primary language. By observing and adapting to corporate behaviors, I've learned to effectively articulate my analysis, insights, and feelings. The diverse environment of Toronto and Canada has broadened my understanding of various perspectives and motivations, helping me navigate workplace conflicts with politeness and respect. This experience has sharpened my business instincts, knowledge, and ability to read people and recognize patterns.
It's striking to realize that Toronto is the place I've called home the longest.
Does Being Bilingual Make Me More Adaptable?
In my experience, bilingualism is unique because one language often dominates in different contexts. I could improve in translating between languages, as each language is tied to specific times and places in my life. For instance, I can discuss Chinese traditions in Cantonese, but when it comes to technology and digital terms, I can only talk about them in English because that's how I learned those concepts. Coaching in English also poses challenges when translating those skills into another language.
Does this adaptability enhance my ability to lead multiple lines of business? Bilingual leaders can:
Foster Better Collaboration and Understanding: Bilingual leaders can bridge cultural gaps and unlock new perspectives by communicating in different languages.
Improve Executive Functions: Bilingualism can enhance cognitive abilities like problem-solving, multitasking, and decision-making.
Enhance Adaptability and Flexibility: Switching between languages can make leaders more adaptable and flexible in changing circumstances.
In conclusion, my bilingualism has played a significant role in shaping my adaptability and leadership skills. It has allowed me to connect with diverse groups, respect multiple viewpoints, and improve my executive functions.
For those on their leadership journey, embracing the value of bilingualism can be a powerful tool for growth and success.
See you next week.
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