Our natural tendency is to accept what we see at face value. This impulse is understandable, but it can also be deceptive.

Occasionally, the visual image appears complete, but much more hides just beneath the surface, as with an iceberg. Other times, the image suggests more to us than what’s immediately visible; for example, a long stretch of winding road creates an expectation that it continues beyond our view, so we remain alert to changes.

As visual creatures, we tend to act according to the apparent meaning of what we see, although it’s possible to misinterpret. When it comes to interpreting situations that involve other people, however, the chances of getting it wrong are much greater. And the consequences can be equally serious.

If a negative customer experience comes to light, the first inclination is to view it as an iceberg. And we all know what happens to ships that don’t pay attention to what’s below the surface. The problem is almost always deeper and wider.

The same can be said of performance issues. When they arise, a superficial assessment typically fails to uncover the root cause. It’s hard to see beneath the surface, so the tendency is not to explore.

On the flip side, there’s tremendous opportunity with coworkers to project positive, continued progress if we will only look down the road and “see” what’s possible with continued navigation. The signals are there, but require interpersonal vision to adapt to the changes ahead.

Don’t be afraid to explore beneath the surface, or look down the road in your interpersonal relationships. It will make navigating your life and career more fulfilling and less risky. Enjoy the view on your journey!