Does Experience Matter?

Does experience really matter? We are hearing a lot in the US election about how experienced McCain is compared to Obama. I was slightly surprised that this statement was being made.

Experience is valuable in certain circumstances but equally it can be negative in other circumstances. When it comes to skills, for example being a plumber, surgeon, accountant, or any situation where specific skills are needed, then experience is probably of significant value. However, the problem with experience is that it also creates a 'rut' in our thinking. Our experience sets a mindset that can actually LIMIT our ability to see opportunities. Worse than that, it can mean that we take a traditional approach to something without realizing we are doing so.

I think McCain has made a big mistake. Yes he has experience, but it is in a old fashioned way of doing Government. Then there is the experience he has based on his military background. The trouble with fighters is their experience is to fight. Like a hammer is in danger of seeing the world as a nail, a fighter is in danger of seeing problems as being dealt with with by a fight. John MCain has shown that this is preferred method of approach many times as a Senator.

So McCain approaching this election from a position of "experience" is very dangerous. It is made worse because the younger generation are tired of hearing that 'experience' is important - in fact if anything we are seeing this generation out to prove the problems with having experience.

On the other hand, Obama has ridden on a ticket of 'change'. Change for the sake of change is always dangerous. But also, change combined with the mindset that experience is not important, is dangerous.

Both have shown that they are not what they say they are. Mcain failed to show the strength of his "experience" and the problems with making "change" for the sake of change, when he chose Palin. Obama has showed he struggles with "change" and with "experience" when he has offered solutions that have failed in the past.

It is a pity that this election is asking the public to choose between 'change' and 'experience'. Both have an important part to play and, when balanced, are powerful.