Enrich Your Life by Intentionally Focusing on Perspectives

Perspective adds depth, dimension, and richness to our lives.

For me, something as simple as Snowmen Around the World (Reynolds) can activate curiosity and positivity and aid in shifting perspective.

It’s a new year, and over the next several weeks you will find yourself participating in discussions that require you to share your perspective or listen to the perspectives of others. During these discussions, you might ask or be asked questions such as:

1. From your perspective, how do you see things unfolding?
2. What are your thoughts on this?
3. How can we build a solution that considers everyone’s perspective?

At its most basic level, perspective can be defined as a mental view, a cognitive orientation, a way of seeing a situation or scene. In a visual context, perspective is the arrangement of objects on a two-dimensional surface to create the illusion of a three-dimensional scene.

Because no two individuals share identical experiences, everyone possesses a unique perspective—and each perspective represents a personal truth. In our volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous world, it is essential that we hear and explore these “truths”.

The Benefits of Broadening Perspectives

Enhancing our ability to appreciate and engage with others’ viewpoints offers several key advantages:

• Increased creativity and innovation – Exposure to unfamiliar and varied perspectives sparks fresh ideas and fosters innovative solutions.
• Enriched problem solving – Considering multiple viewpoints helps identify potential challenges and opportunities.
• Reduced bias – Gaining new insights allows us to challenge and reconsider our preconceived opinions and ideas.
• Enhanced empathy – Viewing the world through others' eyes fosters trust and builds stronger relationships.
• Improved decision making – A well-rounded view leads to more informed, balanced, and thoughtful choices.

For instance, consider the classic question: Is the glass half full or half empty? The answer depends entirely on perspective—and recognizing that both answers are valid can open the door to meaningful dialogue and collaboration.

This year, I am again committing wholeheartedly to continuing my practice of: 1) asking questions of myself and others; 2) meeting new people and trying new things; and 3) exploring the gray that lies between the black and white. Will you join me? It can transform your life.