The Invisibleism Grids – The Progressive CIO

(Please read “Are You an Invisibleist?” and “Introducing the Invisibleism Grids” before proceeding.)

When you wonder what could be in the way of your conversations or interactions with another person, spend time with these grids. I hope they inspire you to think deeply about what could be going on in the other person’s world. We get furthest in our relationships with others when we consider the invisible rather than resorting to simple snap judgements.

Before you peruse the grids, always consider the basics first:

Did the person simply “wake up on the wrong side of the bed” this morning?
Did they simply feel “under the weather” for the day?
Did I recently say or do something that would cause this person to behave differently than I expect or desire?

These grids will be updated occasionally, so check back each time you wish to use them!

1. Psychological Considerations

Have a look at the conditions, and think about the possibility that the person in question might be experiencing one or more of them. I have provided a pair of links for each overarching condition — one from an authoritative nonprofit that contributes to the understanding of the condition by the general public, and a second from an authoritative medical source like the NIH — that will help you gain a better understanding if you think you are onto something. Please note that this grid is large, and scrolls to the right! I am working on ways to improve this; please stay tuned...

2. Comparative / Positional / Relational Considerations

These considerations relate to how people compare or position themselves to others in their relationships.

3. Considerations of Self

These considerations relate to how people perceive or feel about themselves and their situations.

4. Situational / Environmental Considerations

These considerations relate to the environments that people live and operate within, and how those environments have an impact on their behaviors.

5. Personality Considerations

These considerations relate to how personal traits have an impact on how someone is perceived.

6. Ability Considerations

These considerations relate to how people’s ability to apply skills to achieve an end may have an impact on their connections with others.

7. Addiction Considerations

These considerations relate to how people’s addictions may have an impact on their behavior or choices.