You must actively work to understand how your background influences the methods of communication and the words you use. With an open mind, leaders can adapt to the needs of those they lead with different cultural preferences and practices. (Milotich, M., & Hussain, 2014) Each of us's experiences, culture, and beliefs will influence our perception of the message as we listen to or read it. By becoming aware of these tendencies we can begin to address them when communicating with others. When I find myself questioning the message a leader conveys as “off base” or not “relevant,” I begin to reflect on why I should feel this way. Often it's because my personal experience has led me to feel this way and not as expected