Having a helicopter view or just a ride?

What is a "helicopter view"? One dictionary puts it short and simple:

"A general description or opinion of a situation, rather than a detailed one".

It actually suggests to see a bigger picture, which needs an open mind at minimum. To see the big picture also requires to see the others, the people in it.

It isn't easy!

When things are really bothering us up to unrelenting stress levels causing disinclination to work and life, when we are so close to the epicenter of all problems, so emotionally involved with everything and everyone, it often makes us blind and confused.

We need to see things clearly and rationally, in spite of being an integral part of those things.

In a "helicopter view" we should see ourselves and others, our colleagues, affiliates, outsiders, basically all the stakeholders in their / our present situation, options, opportunities and threats, like a fly sees us from the ceiling.

It is about the People first, and only then about the Matters.

It’s like Google Earth: When zooming out, you can see the map in addition to where you are... if having your GPS enabled.

Your internal GPS is your cultural and situational awareness. Only when knowing where you stand, you can find the others in the map.

Yet, does the zooming much help if one doesn't get what is in the picture?

Even many of us believe we can do it, it could be of self-deception, and the results come out accordingly. Some people merely have a helicopter ride - blindfolded - rather than a view, crashing on others when the fuel is running out.

Another danger is getting too high not to see anything useful or hovering in high altitudes constantly, feet never touching the ground. Not even talking about getting hands dirty... yuck!

People who see themselves only, should not believe a second that they can see the real big picture, or anything.

What I have noticed is that the less changes ones career and life contains, the less chances there are for this "helicopter view". Strange, isn't it?

A healthy number of changes in career and life, the more people are able to see things clearly and rationally. Few shocks, especially cultural ones, can help.

It might be about two different, yet intersecting matters:

Outsider view Vs. Helicopter view

...or just about different views?

When in 2002, I migrated back to Finland, I had a reverse cultural shock of my life. I could not believe that I was in a country where I have been born and raised.

It did not help much to work in a place where all is being done in the same way for the last 30 years and nothing should be changed, not to upset anyone.

Although it was tough to blend back in, a different point of view was a benefit what it comes to improving things at work, like the procedures, changing beliefs and habits, and the like. I did, and stirred the soup...  finger burning hot.

It is very likely that the outsider view helped in taking a "helicopter view" as well. These two might not have anything else common except the occasional feeling of distance.

Yet, it is more than the distance!

It is very likely that people who have more versatile experience in diverse industries and preferably some cross-cultural background, have broader views and it is easier for them to take this "helicopter view" when needed.

I have noticed that it is not easy for "one cause" people with narrow views.

Must admit that all the time Curiosity, and in many cases Imagination, have helped far. Curiosity can be the driving force for improvement and change, and change has creates broader views and skills, like combining information and knowledge to something new.

More now than before it is easier to adjust the point of view according to the situation in hand.

Perhaps a bit more patience and empathy helps too, those in shortage at younger age.

Let me assure you, a true "helicopter view" is very difficult to get, and very easy to lose. The same goes with true grass-root view, understanding the basics.

People who can go high and low with their views, see the big picture when needed, yet having a will and ability to take a grass-root stance, have better chances to reach in-depth understanding of their businesses, the people and their customers.

This understanding is crucial in keeping up with times and in being able to change - and promote change - yet being consistent [leader].

Can you validate the above or perhaps contest the above? Likes are good, comments are even better, and shares are highly appreciated.