Sometimes familiarity breeds contempt. Sometimes it prevents it.

We humans love narrative. We tell ourselves stories about the things happening around us. When we don't have sufficient information, we often take a mental shortcut through Assumption Alley or Projection Parkway. This leads to stories about events or people that are inaccurate and often destructive. "They are incompetent," "They are trying to grind us down", etc.

The antidote? Get some facts.

If you do not know opposing counsel and assume they are unreasonable because of their correspondence or litigation style, find an opportunity to chat with them a little, not about the case. Approach them at a conference or social event. Suggest grabbing a tea/boba/iced capp. Learn more about how they actually are as a person before you let your interpretation carry you away.

When you know a person, even a little, it helps you interact with them as more than a caricature or archetype. It can help you adjust your assumptions and answer your questions. It breeds a little more trust and fluidity in the daily interactions that are required for the job.

Photo by EH Kim: https://lnkd.in/gEsjCMv4