"النخب بعيدة تمامًا عن الواقع"

The core idea behind the quote is really about disconnect. It points out that the people at the top of society — whether in government, business, or culture — often don't understand what everyday life is like for the average person. They live in a bubble, insulated from the struggles and realities that most folks face daily.

Think about the French Revolution for some historical context. The aristocrats lived in opulence, throwing lavish parties while the common people were starving. Marie Antoinette’s famous (though possibly misattributed) line, "Let them eat cake," is a classic example of this disconnect. The elites had no idea what it was like to run out of bread or to worry about where the next meal would come from. Their ignorance and indifference sparked a revolution.

Now, let's take a real-life example that hits closer to home. Imagine a CEO of a large corporation making millions in bonuses, while the employees are struggling with minimum wage, worrying about rent, healthcare, and putting food on the table. The CEO decides to cut costs by reducing employee benefits, completely unaware of the impact this will have on their lives. The CEO might think it’s just a business move, but for the employees, it’s a devastating blow — one that could lead to unrest or a mass exodus of talent.

So, how do we apply this wisdom to our lives? If you’re in a position of power, make an effort to stay grounded. Get out of your bubble. Talk to your employees, not just your managers. Listen to their concerns and experiences. Understand that policies and decisions made at the top can have profound effects on those at the bottom. It's about empathy and genuinely caring about the well-being of others.

Imagine you’re running a small business. You’ve been successful, and now you’re considering expanding. Instead of just looking at the numbers and potential profits, think about how this will affect your current employees. Will they need to work longer hours? Will their roles change? Take the time to have a meeting, not just with your managers, but with everyone. Get their input. Understand their concerns. This approach not only creates a more harmonious workplace but also builds loyalty and trust.

Let me tell you a story. There was a manager at a mid-sized tech company who was known for being out of touch. She rarely interacted with her team and made decisions based solely on reports from her senior staff. One day, she decided to implement a new software system that promised to improve productivity. On paper, it looked great. But she didn't consult the people who would actually be using it. The system was complicated, and it ended up being a nightmare for the employees. Productivity dropped, and morale plummeted. After a lot of frustration and some people quitting, she finally had a sit-down with the team. She listened to their feedback and realized the system wasn’t the right fit. They switched back to the old method, and she learned a valuable lesson about staying connected with her team.

This quote reminds us that being out of touch can have serious consequences. Whether you're leading a country, a corporation, or even a small team, understanding the reality of those you lead is crucial. So, next time you're making a decision, ask yourself: Am I considering the real, day-to-day experiences of everyone involved? Your answer could make all the difference.