The Art of Perspective

Crafting Our Lives in Every Moment

Each moment in our lives presents us with a choice: to view our circumstances as obstacles or opportunities. This fundamental truth shapes our experiences and ultimately defines our level of happiness. Let’s explore how our perspectives influence our daily existence and how we can harness this power to create a more fulfilling life.

Shift Perspective

Imagine two people facing the same challenge—a job loss, a breakup, or a health scare. One might see it as a catastrophe, a sign of failure, and a reason to feel hopeless. The other could view it as an opportunity for growth or a doorway to new possibilities. The reality is that the situation itself hasn’t changed; only their perspectives have.

Psychologists often discuss the concept of “cognitive reframing”, which involves changing the way we interpret a situation from negative to positive. By shifting our thoughts, we may be able can identify a lesson learned from the situation or something to be grateful for. A job loss, for instance, can lead to new and exciting career opportunities.  Another concept is called “examining the evidence” where we dig underneath any assumptions that lead us to our negative interpretation. This doesn’t mean we ignore the negative aspects of life but rather take a step back and think about situations more flexibly. (Harvard University, 2024).

As core energy leadership coach, I learned about seven different perspectives that we can base our actions on. Sometimes we are on autopilot not realizing how our thoughts and feelings drive towards actions that sometimes don’t steer towards the optimal outcome. It takes practice to generate a level of consciousness about our thoughts and feelings before we jump the gun. I can tell you that from experience. Equipped with the learning from iPEC I have great insights, and  I realize that moving from insight to action is another story. I still find myself making assumptions about situations that are not valid and get caught in limiting believes that have me stuck in a rut. I am grateful from my coach who persists to ask me “What are the facts?”, or, “What’s another perspective you can take?”.

Embrace a Growth Mindset

One of the most impactful ways to alter our perspective is by adopting a growth mindset—a concept popularized by psychologist Carol Dweck. Those with a growth mindset believe that abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work. This perspective fosters resilience and encourages us to see failures as steppingstones towards success (2006).

When we face challenges with a growth mindset, we become more adaptable and open to new experiences. We start to recognize that every setback is an opportunity to learn, and every challenge can lead to personal evolution. I recognize in myself that I tend to be a “glass is half full” perspective and now I realizes that its purpose was to prepare me for the worst outcome which upon close observation where highly unlikely to occur.

Practice Gratitude

Another powerful tool for reshaping our perspective is gratitude. By focusing on what we appreciate in our lives, we shift our attention away from what’s lacking or negative. This simple yet profound practice can dramatically alter our outlook. There is a growing field of social science that gratitude journaling strengthens a positive recall of our experiences and promotes feelings of happiness and optimism (Pratt, 2022),

Consider starting a gratitude journal. Each day, jot down three things you’re thankful for. Over time, you’ll find that this practice not only brightens your mood but also enhances your overall perspective on life. You begin to see the beauty in the mundane and recognize the abundance that exists in your life, even amidst challenges.

Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness is another essential practice that can help us create a more positive perspective. By grounding ourselves in the present moment, we can observe our thoughts and feelings without judgment. This awareness allows us to respond to situations thoughtfully rather than reactively.

Practicing mindfulness can be as simple as taking a few deep breaths or engaging in meditation. These moments of stillness enable us to clear our minds, reduce stress, and cultivate a more balanced perspective. When we approach life with mindfulness, we’re more likely to respond to challenges with clarity and calmness.

Conclusion: Your Perspective Shapes Your Reality

Ultimately, life is a reflection of how we choose to perceive it. By embracing a growth mindset, practicing gratitude, and cultivating mindfulness, we empower ourselves to create a richer, more meaningful life. Every moment offers a choice: to see the world through a lens of opportunity or to remain stuck in a cycle of negativity.

As we navigate life’s ups and downs, let’s remember that our perspectives are not fixed. They can be reshaped and redefined. In doing so, we become the architects of our own reality, creating a life that aligns with our values, dreams, and aspirations.

References/additional reading:

Harvard University (2024). Stress and Development Lab. Cognitive reappraisal: positive reframing and examining the evidence. https://sdlab.fas.harvard.edu/cognitive-reappraisal/positive-reframing-and-examining-evidence

Dweck, C. S. Ph.D. (2006). Mindset: The new psychology of success. Random House LLC.

Pratt, M. (2022, February 17) Mindful: healthy mind, healthy life. The Science of gratitude. Mindful.org https://www.mindful.org/the-science-of-gratitude/