Since its inception in 1977, Star Wars narratives have amassed a large following. By adopting a transmedia strategy, he has given his fans a truly immersive experience that spawned a unique subculture of its own. While many look to the film franchise for childhood memories and heart-pounding plot developments, some of us discover enlightening PR advice from Yoda and Obi-Wan Kenobi. Here are some of them:

Many of the truths we cling to depend on our point of view.

The first lesson to learn from Obi-Wan is the importance of empathy for a public relations professional. We, as public relations professionals, must be able to abandon confirmatory biases in order to analyze situations from the perspective of different actors.

The mission of public relations is to build a mutually beneficial relationship between different stakeholders through interest management. Without the ability to consider from different parties’ points of view, certain stakeholder groups may be disappointed and thus set the stage for future conflict.

Always in motion is the future.

Change is the only constant; the future is difficult to predict. However, one of the most exciting parts of public relations is also forecasting trends and preparing for what may be.

Rapid changes in media consumption patterns and technological advances add to the challenge. It is the very speed that throws unsuspecting professionals and agencies out of the game and even makes some obsolete. The courage to accept change is the key to survival and success. There is a need to constantly stay on top of the latest industry developments, consumer trends, and strengthen our arsenal with the latest skill sets.

Don’t assume anything Obi-Wan. Clear your mind if you want to discover the real villains behind this plot.

Yoda’s advice to Obi-Wan serves as a reminder to everyone to never take things at face value and to always keep a clear head. Regardless of how busy we are, being a professional means to never compromise on standards and work ethic.

Instead of just hoping for the ideal, we always anticipate and prepare for the worst with contingency plans. It also helps to have a clear mind when analyzing facts and situations. When faced with a cluttered mind, always take a breather before diving into tasks.

To be a Jedi is to face the truth and choose. Emit light or dark, Padawan. Be it a candle, or the night.

Last but not least, Yoda also delivers an important PR lesson on decision making and integrity. When a choice or decision has to be made, it must be made based on ethics and integrity. Always playing devil’s advocate, the best of advertisers must always remember that we are not crowd pleasers, nor are we merely mouthpieces. Always choose to err on the right side (did I say light?).

In short, regardless of being a Warsie or not, there is always something for everyone to learn from the nuggets of wisdom hidden along the Star Wars journey. As long as we are sure that we have learned everything there is to do, always remember that.

“A lot to learn, you still have”