"By seeing differently, we can end up seeing what no one else has yet seen. This is how the future is built."

Seeing Differently: The Key to Building the Future

In a world increasingly driven by innovation and creativity, the ability to see differently stands out as a defining characteristic of those who shape the future. By transcending the limitations of conventional perspectives, we open ourselves to possibilities previously obscured, enabling us to envision and realize groundbreaking ideas. This transformative power of seeing differently is not reserved for a select few; it is an innate capacity within each of us, waiting to be cultivated and unleashed.

The article "To Change the Way You Think, Change the Way You See" from Harvard Business Review (HBR) (To Change the Way You Think, Change the Way You See (hbr.org)) aptly captures this essence, highlighting the profound impact of seeing differently on innovation and entrepreneurship. It delves into the stories of individuals who have revolutionized their fields by adopting unconventional perspectives, demonstrating how their unique ways of seeing the world led to groundbreaking insights and transformative creations.

The Power of a Different Lens

The ability to see differently is not merely about perceiving things in a physical sense; it is about reframing mental models, challenging assumptions, and questioning established norms. It is the ability to step outside the confines of our habitual ways of thinking and embrace the unfamiliar.

Consider the story of George de Mestral, the Swiss engineer who invented Velcro. Inspired by the burrs that clung to his dog's fur, he saw not a nuisance but a potential solution for fastening materials. His ability to perceive the burrs' intricate structure from a fresh perspective led to the creation of a revolutionary fastening system that has revolutionized countless industries.

Similarly, the creation of Softsoap, a gentle liquid soap, was born out of a different way of seeing the problem of handwashing. While others focused on the cleansing properties of soap, chemist Norman Bronn saw the potential for a soap that was not only effective but also gentle on the skin. His ability to reframe the problem from a user-centric perspective led to the development of a product that has transformed the way we wash our hands.

Breaking Free from Habituation

Our ability to see differently is often hindered by our tendency to habituate, to become entrenched in familiar patterns of thinking and perception. We fall into routines, accept existing frameworks, and limit our exploration of alternative possibilities. This habitual thinking can blind us to new opportunities and prevent us from realizing our full potential.

The HBR article emphasizes this point, stating that "habituation is a powerful force that can keep us locked into a way of seeing the world that is no longer serving us." It suggests that we actively seek to break free from these ingrained patterns by consciously challenging our assumptions and exposing ourselves to new perspectives.

To cultivate the ability to see differently, we must engage in a continuous process of learning and unlearning. We must actively seek out diverse viewpoints, immerse ourselves in unfamiliar environments, and engage with experiences that challenge our existing worldviews. By expanding our horizons, we open ourselves to new possibilities and cultivate the fertile ground for innovation and creativity.

The Future is Built on Different Perspectives

The ability to see differently is not merely a personal pursuit; it is a collective endeavor that shapes the future we create. As individuals, our unique perspectives contribute to the vast tapestry of human understanding, providing the building blocks for innovation and progress. When we collectively embrace the power of seeing differently, we unleash a force capable of transforming our world.

The HBR article concludes with a powerful statement: "The future is built by those who see things differently." This call to action underscores the importance of nurturing this ability in ourselves and others. By fostering a culture of open-mindedness, curiosity, and exploration, we create an environment conducive to innovation and empower individuals to envision and realize the future we collectively desire.

To summarise

In a world yearning for new solutions and transformative ideas, the ability to see differently stands as a beacon of hope and possibility. By cultivating this innate capacity, we empower ourselves to challenge the status quo, break free from limiting perspectives, and envision a future brimming with innovation and progress. The future is not merely a destination; it is a continuous journey of exploration, shaped by our collective ability to see differently.

Credits:

To Change the Way You Think, Change the Way You See (hbr.org)