To say that every problem usually has more than one way to look at it is of course an understatement. Since we all see through our own filters, most situations have more than two.
This phrase really struck home on my recent trip to Southern California. As everyone knows, California has been experiencing a serious drought for the last four years with no end in sight. While traveling, I encountered two different ways businesses were handling the water restrictions.
(In the following stories, I am in no way minimizing the water emergency the state is facing. I’m simply pointing out that there may be different ways to communicate it to guests.)
One of my stops on the way down the coast was Hearst Castle, which I totally loved. Since America is pretty short on castles, visiting one in my home state is especially delightful. However, I was surprised to be greeted by a parking lot full of Porta Potties and the following sign posted on the front door of the visitor center.
Not the best welcome, albeit necessary to close the restrooms. The message could have been expressed with a bit more subtlety while still getting the point across.
Compare this very same sign to the drought response at Bacara, an elegant resort in Santa Barbara. The property is spread across 80 acres and is landscaped with beautiful plants and fountains. Rather than have water flowing in the fountains, the resort replaced the water with drought-resistant plants. The result…stunning!
If you think in terms of luxury, creativity may be the result. If you only think in terms of transaction, the result can be experienced as utilitarian and off-putting.