About this quote

I must get to know him better." flips suspicion into deliberate action. Rather than letting dislike harden into a permanent judgment, use discomfort as a signal to learn, ask questions, and test your assumptions. That approach demands accountability: you face your bias, gather facts, and grow more effective as a leader and as a person. Get curious, not defensive — understanding is a tool, not an excuse.

When to use it

• Before labeling a coworker as difficult, set a short one-on-one to hear their priorities and constraints.
• If a neighbor or parent rubs you the wrong way, invite them for coffee and listen to their side instead of retreating.
• When a public figure triggers resentment, read their record or listen to their words first, then decide.
• If you keep clashing with someone on your team, spend one meeting learning how they approach problems and where they feel stuck.