Published: LinkedIn (standout4growth), Date:December 17, 2022
My birthday is around the corner, and one thing I remember feeling about having my birthday in this season is that it was a scam! As a child, it always felt like no one, other than family of course, seemed to remember that Christmas Day was also my day, not just the day Christ was born. What an ironic view: same situation, different perspectives.
The true impact of any situation is felt when you get to analyse it from a different perspective. Our perspectives are shaped by our experiences and depend on the view from which we see the world around us. Being able to fully appreciate a situation for what it is, without judgement, leads to an appreciation of the different perspectives that exist.
How then can you influence your perspective in any situation?
Mind your attitude
The quote “When your attitude is right, the facts don’t matter,” by Kevin Trudeau, sums up the power of maintaining a positive attitude in all circumstances. A good attitude infuses hope, and hope will always look for the different possibilities in any given situation, even when things are not going as expected.
Appreciate differences
Can you imagine how boring life would be if we all saw it from the same viewpoint? The differences we see give us an opportunity to learn from others, and in learning, we grow.
Ask the right questions
Asking questions is good, but asking the right questions with the intention of seeking feedback will give you real insight. Open yourself up to receiving feedback and you will be surprised what you uncover about yourself or a situation.
Eliminate the biases
Biases influence our decisions and how we see the world in general, and sometimes these biases are unconscious. Take the proactive step to understand what hidden biases may be influencing your perspective, and maintain an open mind.
Appreciating different perspectives is good for our learning and growth. So the next time you are faced with a situation, look at it holistically and try to understand it from different angles — you may find something you had initially overlooked, or thought you despised.
As you evaluate yourself, appreciate that what others see in you may not be aligned with what you see in yourself. Aligning these differing views goes a long way toward streamlining your personal brand. Remember: while your situation may appear pepperish to you, it may be golden to others. So, mind your perspective.
