“To change ourselves effectively, we first had to change our perceptions.”
–Stephen R. Corvey, Author of 7 Habits of Highly Effective People
Can’t see the forest for the trees? Having trouble seeing another person’s point of view? Perspective is the strength you need. This strength is being able to recognize and understand multiple viewpoints. From work to school to home, changing your perspective can change your life.
In today’s post, Mayerson Academy explains how shifting your perspective can help you understand multiple viewpoints. We share examples of everyday people learning a different way of thinking.
How Can Changing Your Perspective Change Your Life?
In a 2012 study, perspective was one of five strengths found to help creative tasks. Perspective also helps decrease stress.
Extensive bodies of research show that negativity bias is hardwired into us as human beings. This began in our earliest days as a species. Back then, paying extra attention to threats and “bad” things was necessary.
This same negativity bias lives on in our modern brains. It just shows up in different ways. Think of:
- One statement you forgot to say in a meeting versus all that you remembered
- Your supervisor’s single piece of critical feedback versus the many positive ones
- When someone let you down versus the many they didn’t
- How your partner did one thing wrong over the many things they did right or remembered
The ability to see the bigger picture leads to higher levels of empathy. Putting yourself in the shoes of another person is always important.
Examples of Changing Perspectives
Need some inspiration? Check out these stories of perspective!
- Daryl Davis, an African American blues musician, has made 200 KKK members see things differently. They’ve given up their robes.
- Scientists are consistently evolving their thoughts based on new evidence and the discovery of new facts.
Ways to Practice Changing Your Perspective
Ask Yourself Three Questions.
When you start focusing on the negative, your mind will get caught in a spiral. Your mind might fill with racing thoughts. By asking these three questions, you’ll realize your worst fears almost never happen. There’s almost always another option to your situation.
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- What is the worst possible outcome?
- What is the best possible outcome?
- What is most likely going to happen?
Reach Out to Another Person.
Whether it’s a challenging relationship with a colleague or a presentation you’re not sure about, sometimes a fresh set of eyes is exactly what we need. This week, ask a person you trust to help you see a situation from another angle.
Contact Mayerson Academy for Leadership Coaching
If you’re looking to overcome organizational challenges, our experienced team of change-makers and consultants is dedicated to helping you succeed. Start a conversation with us to find out about our Leadership Coaching offerings, customized sessions designed for executives and executive teams that elevates leaders to their potential. Connect here or call us at 513-263-2210.
