Choosing Perspective

Perspective. In art it’s a technique used to create the illusion of depth or three-dimensionality on a two-dimensional surface. In humans, it’s our point of view, how we view our world. So, two people can encounter the same situation and see it from two completely different perspectives.

Our perspectives are formed by our past experiences, the information we choose to listen to, the expectations of others, even our emotions. They’re not right or wrong, however they can lead to frustration, conflicts, or a feeling of being stuck. We can change our perspective by choosing to look at a situation differently or to understand the point of view of others.

Changing your perspective can be enlightening. A fresh look at a situation can allow you to view a person differently. But changing your perspective requires a mind open to possibilities, to the idea that you are not always right, and people can be sort of “funny” where that’s concerned.

Our minds understand we don’t know everything, but our emotions want to believe we do, so right now, I’m going to ask you to entertain the improbable. Here are some ways:

Vow to be more accepting.
New people and situations are inevitable. Sometimes, the best way to change your perspective is to be open to new ideas brought by your new acquaintances. Why not see what happens if you’re more open-minded and accepting? Tell yourself you’re letting go of your “old” templates for looking at things.

Seek a more positive lifestyle.
Whenever you want to enhance your life, shift the way you see something to a more positive position. I live in a 55+ community of older folks. Those that I’m drawn to have a zest for life. They don’t sit around talking about their health issues, they talk about their next big adventure. Now I’m not saying the health issues don’t exist, they just choose the see what they can do, instead of what they can’t.

Give people another chance.
Even if someone has upset you, entertain the idea that it wasn’t intentional. Maybe they were having a rough day or made a mistake in judgment. Perhaps a misunderstanding took place between you. Don’t take anything personally, because it’s not!

Offer understanding.
Don’t think I’m telling you that you have to change your perspective. I’m not. However, a little understanding of another’s perspective can you a long way in your interpersonal relationships. Say, for instance, your friend has a perspective on a situation that it completely different from yours. Talk with them and see if you can suss out where they’re coming from. Is there some fear around their viewpoint? Why? Have they received some information that is different from yours? Is their some life experience that influences their perspective?

Perspective is a funny thing. Impalpable by nature, we often can’t explain why we have a particular perspective. Differing perspectives often lead to disagreements. I can be difficult to change our perspective, or to understand the perspective of others (I’m still working on it), yet it’s an important part of peaceful communication.