Common sense seems simple, yet it’s often missing in the workplace. For me, common sense is the ability to put yourself in another person’s shoes — to think practically, act responsibly, and consider how your decisions impact others.
Here are a few signs of ‘lacking common sense‘ in the office:
- Taking Credit for Others’ Work
Managers or coworkers who take ownership of someone else’s ideas or hard work fail to recognize a simple truth: teamwork and integrity are the backbone of success. Claiming undue credit not only damages trust but also erodes team morale. - Saying One Thing, Doing Another
Individuals who agree with someone in person (“Great idea!”) but criticize or undermine them behind their back create a toxic and untrustworthy environment. Actions that don’t match words are a clear sign of poor judgment and dishonesty. - Talking More Than Doing
Endless meetings, grand promises, and excessive chatter without meaningful action waste time and energy. Those who focus more on talk than results demonstrate a lack of practical judgment and accountability. - Ignoring Others’ Perspectives
Dismissing the ideas, feedback, or experiences of colleagues—especially those who are directly affected by decisions—shows a failure to consider others’ needs. This kind of blind spot often leads to poor choices, wasted effort, and missed opportunities. - Overcomplicating Simple Problems
Turning straightforward tasks into unnecessarily complex processes—whether to appear “busy” or to showcase expertise—reveals a lack of practical thinking. Simplicity often leads to efficiency, while overcomplication slows progress. - Blaming Others for Mistakes
Refusing to take responsibility and shifting blame onto others is a surefire sign of poor self-awareness and immaturity. True accountability is essential for building trust and fostering a positive work culture. - Lack of Adaptability
In a rapidly changing workplace, clinging to outdated tools, processes, or ideas disrupts productivity and progress. A rigid mindset shows poor judgment and an unwillingness to grow alongside the team or organization. - Not Respecting Boundaries
Constant interruptions, micromanagement, or dismissing coworkers’ personal time demonstrate a lack of awareness about balance and respect. Healthy boundaries are crucial for focus, productivity, and maintaining strong professional relationships.
Common sense isn’t just about intelligence; it’s about practical thinking, empathy, and awareness—qualities that drive teamwork, productivity, and trust.
What do you think?
- Have you observed a lack of common sense in your workplace?
- What are some examples of practical common sense you believe every professional should have?
Please feel free to share your experience.
Way of Improving Common Sense by readings
The Book on Common Sense: How to Get Common Sense Even If You Don’t Know What It Is
This book offers a comprehensive guide to understanding and improving common sense, featuring practical examples and decision-making strategies. https://amzn.to/3P2ygtD
Common Sense: How to Exercise It
Yoritomo Tashi provides practical advice and exercises to enhance critical thinking, decision-making, and problem-solving abilities, emphasizing that common sense can be developed through practice. https://amzn.to/3BmDc9D
Practical Intelligence: The Art and Science of Common Sense
Karl Albrecht explores the concept of practical intelligence, offering insights into applying common sense in various situations to improve personal and professional effectiveness. https://amzn.to/3ZHNCbW
Everything Is Obvious: How Common Sense Fails Us
Duncan J. Watts examines the limitations of common sense reasoning and how understanding these pitfalls can lead to better decision-making and planning. https://amzn.to/3VGq99P
29 Ways to be Wise: Wisdom and Common Sense for Everyday Life
Vance Richards presents practical wisdom and common-sense advice for daily living, covering topics like decision-making, critical thinking, and learning from mistakes. https://amzn.to/4gEbunv
The Common Sense Way: A New Way to Think About Leading and Organizing
Pete Blaber shares leadership lessons emphasizing the application of common sense in decision-making and organizational management. https://amzn.to/4fgD0q8
Common Sense 101: Lessons from Chesterton
Dale Ahlquist delves into G.K. Chesterton’s writings, extracting lessons on applying common sense to various aspects of life, including politics, art, and education. https://amzn.to/4fo8tH9
These books provide valuable insights and practical strategies to enhance your common sense, aiding in better judgment and decision-making in everyday life.
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