In today's diverse business world, we must know when our perceptions are working for us, and when they're working against us. How we perceive, not what we perceive, is what influences how and what we think and believe, which, in turn, affects our behaviors. If we are to engage others, both of our own and other cultures, we must become more aware, more self-aware of our perceptions, and those of others. We can shape and alter our thinking to allow our perceptions to help us become more effective employees, decision-makers, and leaders.