Perspective -pride in your point of view!

We never know what's round the corner for us do we? So, when a moment presents to celebrate your point of view, in this example for me a ‘career highlight,’ I seized it with both hands, this is what this above photograph represents! The Highlight in the picture which was taken recently, is the view, as I looked out to the East of Greater Manchester, from the top floor of the Coop Head Office, at 1 Angel Square, Manchester City Centre. https://www.steelconstruction.info/images/thumb/2/29/Coop_HQ_NSC1110.jpg/600px-Coop_HQ_NSC1110.jpg

I felt proud as I stood there, admiring the view and taking stock of this latest perspective. You see a few years back I worked with Homes England and admired the building, stood outside, taking stock of the surrounding landscape, trees, bridges, railway and vast development opportunities out to the East, whilst on foot walking amongst the area. Now, a few years later, the same view with a different lens this time, from a different location and admiring the land now, how it has been unlocked for new homes and development.? It was a super moment for me, both in terms of reflecting on the impact I made when at Homes England and being part of that amazing team, as well as now standing in this flagship building, with another fantastic Client organisation the Coop, with its proud Greater Manchester heritage.

This sunny day in Manchester, I felt on top of the world.?I am pleased I captured the reflection and bottled it, as its this type of joy which I use to continue to power on, if ever shade comes along, which invariably it does, at times, for all of us.? Noting the shade "will pass it always does" a key mantra of mine.

Taking time to reflect, appreciating I could never have imagined being stood in the building I was now in, with the perspective I was gifted of the great outlook! It was just magic to dance in the moment of reflection, remarking to myself how life continues to twist and turn, right in front of my eyes.

It is an important skill ‘to capture perspective,’ allowing us to see and understand a change from different viewpoints, as well as understanding how change manifests over the months and years.? When we capture moments like this, we open ourselves to a broader understanding of the world. It’s like putting on different lenses through which we can travel to un-expected destinations, almost in an instant, as I did flashing back to Homes England one minute, with some 5 years later now being stood in one of the most iconic buildings, in Manchester, admiring the same view but with a changed perspective.

In professional settings, the ability to take perspective is invaluable. Whether working in a team, managing employees, or dealing with clients, understanding diverse viewpoints enhances decision-making processes and fosters a positive, inclusive working environment. Leaders who can appreciate the reflections, hopes, proud moments and aspirations, as well as concerns of their team members are more likely to inspire trust and collaboration.

Moreover, perspective-taking is a fundamental skill in conflict resolution. When faced with disagreements, individuals who can step into the shoes of others and differing points of view are better equipped to find common ground. This not only facilitates compromise but also promotes a culture of understanding, even ‘win win’ situations, that can prevent future problems, increase collaboration and more productive partnering relationships.

Education is another realm where perspective-taking is fundamental. Teachers who encourage students to consider different viewpoints foster critical thinking skills and create a more integrated learning environment. Exposure to diverse perspectives prepares students to navigate an interconnected world, promoting tolerance and global understanding, behaviours we seem to need more and more these days.

Cultivating the ability to take perspective requires conscious effort and practice. Admiring views, reading literature from various authors, watching documentaries, and participating in discussions with people from diverse backgrounds can broaden our worldview, as well as allowing us to capture those instant ‘photo’ moments of perfect perspective, like this photo example, for me.

In conclusion, taking perspective is a multifaceted skill that enriches our personal, professional, and educational experiences. It helps foster pride in oneself – well it did for me on this day, providing greater understanding of the path I’ve trodden and the ones to come.? Taking time for ‘perspective’ reflections, can also improve communication skills through better storytelling.? By actively seeking to understand, we contribute to increasing the personal depth of our being, which can only be a good thing, to create a more informed, tolerant, inclusive, harmonious and happier inner self, which can then naturally radiate into society for increased, positive impact.

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Executive Director Dr. Claire Handby FCIOB MAPM, is a Transformation and Growth Programme Leader, alongside being an Executive Coach and Employment, Skills, Inclusion Policy Advisor for the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce. Website www.drclairehandby.com and DM for a conversation to explore any support you’d value for your business growth or personal development, at this time.