Sometimes the most interesting conversations happen over a cup of coffee, especially when they involve curiosity, different perspectives and a little weird wisdom!
I spent time over the weekend with Trish Goodfield, the famous (or as she prefers to be called, infamous 😂) author of ‘Weird Wisdom at Work’, chatting about life, ideas, the future and her approach to diversity of thought.
One of the things I find fascinating about Trish’s work is the origin of the word ‘weird’. In her book, she explores its roots in archaic Scottish English and Norse mythology, where ‘wyrd’ is connected with destiny.
As Trish explains, the original meaning was about owning who you are and recognising how your uniqueness connects with your purpose.
Quite a different perspective on being weird, isn’t it?
One of my favourite moments from the weekend was sitting outside a local coffee shop, sheltered beneath the awning as the rain fell, listening to Trish chatting with a local dairy farmer about the origins of Weird Wisdom. Watching the farmer connect the dots, exchange perspectives and discover common ground was fascinating. There we were, drinking our coffee, chatting with locals and thoroughly enjoying ourselves despite the rain.
It was also a lovely reminder of how much we can learn when we make space for different ways of thinking.
I particularly appreciate how Trish encourages me to see that my own approach to curiosity, creativity, stretch the box thinking, and helping people get unstuck, isn’t necessarily weird. It’s simply a different way of looking at things, and that difference can be valuable.
Our conversations also gave me plenty to think about as I continue exploring my ideas and plans for the future. Trish has generously shared tips, strategies and encouragement, but what I value just as much is her ability to hold space for me to think out loud, explore possibilities and be vulnerable about the things that matter to me.
And then there was the beautiful inscription she wrote in my copy of her book.
“Jenn, you help people find hope when the way ahead isn’t clear.”
She went on to describe how we are walking the same side of the street.
I think that might be my favourite bit of Weird Wisdom from the weekend.
Perhaps being a little weird isn’t something to shy away from after all. Perhaps it’s about recognising the value of our own perspective, while remaining curious enough to appreciate the perspectives of others.
