Have you ever wondered how a simple shift in perspective could completely transform your life? The way we view situations shapes our reality, our relationships, and even the culture around us. Opening yourself up to new and diverse perspectives not only strengthens your personal growth but also builds your effectiveness as a leader and member of society.
This blog explores how embracing diverse perspectives can lead to greater empathy, emotional intelligence, and authentic connection in all areas of life.
What is Perspective?
In its simplest form, a perspective is the way we see things. It’s a lens shaped by our values, experiences, and personal preferences.
Let’s dive into how our perspectives define us and practical ways to embrace new ones in your personal life, at work, and in your community.
PERSPECTIVE SHAPES YOUR REALITY
“To change ourselves effectively, we first had to change our perceptions.” – Stephen R. Covey
Our point of view is what defines how we experience everything.
Often, we feel out of control or stuck in the way we see things. The truth is you have the power to choose your perspective and, thus, the actions that follow.
How you choose to look at the situation will drastically impact your experience as well as the result of any actions you take.
Here’s an example: Let’s say you are dreading an upcoming executive presentation.
Your perspective might be that it will be challenging, and perhaps some self-doubt that you are not up to the task.
Because of this, you over-prepare, but it doesn’t make you feel any more confident. In fact, it just makes you feel more anxiety and self-doubt.
Now, what if you chose a different perspective—one that views the presentation as an exciting opportunity to showcase your team’s hard work?
Shifting to this positive viewpoint can boost your confidence, leading to a more genuine, impactful presentation.
In essence, this shift in perspective changes not only your mindset and actions but also your impact.
Steps to Shift out of a Limiting Perspective
- Identify a Limiting Perspective: Where in your life do you feel stuck or negative? Where have you given up? Where do you feel trapped? Where have you stopped choosing?
- Explore Alternative Perspectives: Think of 3-5 other ways to view the situation. How would you prefer to see it? What would a more positive viewpoint look like?
- Choose the Most Resonant Perspective: Look at the other possible perspectives you came up with and choose the one that honors your values and aligns with who you are becoming.
- Take Action from This New Perspective: What’s one action you can take from this viewpoint? Make a conscious choice about the action you will take next from this new perspective.
Remember: You’re in control of your life—you have the power to choose how you respond. By choosing your perspective, you set the foundation for real personal growth.
OPEN YOURSELF TO DIVERSE PERSPECTIVES
“The best leaders are often the best listeners. They have an open mind. They are not interested in having their way but finding the best way” – Winifred Peterson
As leaders, the ability to see through different lenses builds emotional intelligence, fosters inclusion, and strengthens team cohesion.
Leadership is about creating an environment where every team member feels valued, heard, and respected.
When leaders embrace diverse perspectives, they build trust and inspire others to bring their full selves to work.
We’ve all encountered leaders who seem unable to see beyond their viewpoint. They rarely consider input from their team and are quick to make harsh assumptions when someone makes a mistake.
They risk the possibility of genuine connection and completely sever their ability to motivate and inspire their team. These leaders make others feel like they don’t matter and that their experience is not valued.
Tips for How You Can Embrace Diverse Perspectives
- Seek to Understand: Don’t assume you know all the details. Be open and curious as you engage in conversation to learn more about the situation. Invite others to share how they see it.
- Challenge your assumptions: Educate yourself where you may not have a strong understanding. Actively look for data that might disprove your perspective.
- Get to Know Your Team: Take time to understand each team member’s personal story. This insight enhances empathy, changes how you manage, and makes you a more effective leader.
Remember: The best leaders actively seek diverse perspectives and invite those voices to the table, building a culture where every team member feels valued.
PERSPECTIVE IS THE FOUNDATION OF EMPATHY
“Empathy is the ability to recognize and respect others’ perspectives, even when they differ from our own” – Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
The root cause of fervent disagreement in politics, religion, parenting, etc. stems from each party believing the way they see the world is the only way. Each side shares a common perspective and then condemns the other side for disagreeing with their perspective.
When we dismiss or criticize others for holding different perspectives, we close the door to meaningful dialogue and miss the chance to foster understanding or drive impactful change.
The image below perfectly illustrates why it’s important to widen our perspective lens.
You might see the orange square, and I might see the blue circle. While we both might think the other person is wrong, the reality is we are seeing different aspects of the truth.
Too often we assume we know a person but rarely do we really take the time to understand their experience and perspective.
This video by Cleveland Clinic is a beautiful example of why empathy is so important in our interactions with others.
The first time I watched it, I was moved to tears—it’s a powerful reminder of why empathy matters in our interactions with others.
Imagine how different our world would be if we could pause, suspend judgment, and lean into curiosity to understand others’ viewpoints. Yes, these conversations can be uncomfortable, but they’re essential for change and understanding.
Here is your invitation to approach diverse perspectives in a new way! Below are some questions to get you thinking about where you have an opportunity.
Reflection Questions:
- Where might I be judging or making an assumption about someone instead of seeking to understand?
- How is my perspective limiting connection with others different from me?
- Is there a relationship that could benefit from an open conversation?
- What is more important: maintaining my comfort or opening dialogue and understanding?
How Will You Use Diverse Perspectives to Grow?
Perspective plays a critical role in every area of our lives. By opening ourselves to new viewpoints, we can build stronger relationships, lead with empathy, and make more meaningful contributions to society.
What’s One Action You’ll Take? Reflect on what you’ve learned and choose one thing you’ll do differently based on these insights. Share it with me! Find my social links below, and send me a DM—I’d love to hear from you.
Want More?
Looking shift out of a limiting perspective or improve your emotional intelligence? Let’s talk! Book a chemistry session below.
