I’ve written a couple of times about stuck perspectives. It can happen easily, over time, without notice. I get a lesson in this regularly when interacting with my family and my colleagues. There is a daily reminder that we do not all think, feel, or process things the same. And, that is how it should be in a world full of people with different experiences. But how exactly does one go about identifying and embracing different perspectives? A professional coach can help with this, however there are several daily practices that can also help generate awareness and consideration of different perspectives.
“Learning is about seeing things from a different perspective.”
– Bob Selden
My daily practices that help me generate awareness and consideration of different perspectives.
Reading
I read everyday; novels, white papers, and books about leadership or self development. It’s an opportunity to see things from the perspective of others whether it be fiction or nonfiction. The writing, research, experiences, and thoughts shared on those pages quite regularly include things I have not yet considered or really sat with. It’s energizing and gives me pause to look at things in a different way. Not one for reading? Perhaps consider audio books or podcasts.
Networking
If you are an introvert like me, you might cringe at the mention of engaging in dialogue with a room full of strangers. It doesn’t come easily for many of us, neither do most things that are good for wellbeing. That said, once you jump in all you have to do is inquire, listen, and learn. While a networking event may be centered around a topic of common interest, the experiences and opinions of those participating will differ.
Feedback
Want to learn how others perceive you or experience your presence? Ask for candid and specific feedback. Just be sure that you are open to what you might receive and be ready to ask probing questions that will uncover even more detail and insight. Be sure to request feedback from a range of people – not just those who are likely to tell you how ‘wonderful’ you are.
Questions
Whatever the conversation, bring your curiosity and ask a lot of questions, especially those that begin with “what” because “what” feels more genuine and a heck of a lot less judgmental than “why”. Once you ask, listen carefully and keep on asking to learn more about the other person’s perspective.
There is a flow that develops when we embrace different perspectives; it contrasts the feeling of resistance that comes from holding onto a perspective that no longer serves you well. It’s a little like turning your face to a ray of sunlight, warm, nourishing, and good for the soul.
– Melissa Law
