It’s all a matter of perspective. Perspective is worth more than IQ. Cliche’s you’ve heard before; they true. Having and gaining perspective is part of growing up, few people take full control of enhacing it and most don’t.

Shifting perspective is the ability to see a situation or problem from different angles and viewpoints. It is a powerful tool that can help individuals and organizations to make better decisions and solve problems more effectively.

Why shifting perspective is a superpower

One of the main benefits of shifting perspective is that it allows individuals and organizations to see problems and opportunities in a new light. When we are faced with a problem, it is easy to get caught up in our own perspective and to become stuck in a narrow way of thinking. Shifting perspective allows us to step back and see the problem from a different angle, which can help us to identify new solutions and opportunities.

For example, imagine a company that is struggling to increase sales. By shifting perspective, the company may realize that its target market is not the one it should be focusing on, and may instead target a different market segment that is more likely to be interested in its products. This shift in perspective can lead to a significant increase in sales and can help the company to achieve its goals.

Another benefit of shifting perspective is that it can help to reduce bias and improve decision-making. When we are stuck in our own perspective, we may be more likely to make decisions based on our own biases and assumptions. Shifting perspective allows us to consider different viewpoints and to make decisions based on facts and evidence, rather than assumptions; shifting your perspective helps improve your decisions and increase your impact at work.

Shifting perspective can also be beneficial for teamwork and collaboration. When we are working with others, it is easy to get caught up in our own perspective and to become stuck in a narrow way of thinking. By shifting perspective, we can better understand the perspectives of others and to work together more effectively to achieve shared goals.

There are several techniques that can be used to achieve shifting perspective. One of the most effective techniques is to actively seek out and consider different viewpoints and perspectives. This can be achieved by talking to people from different backgrounds and cultures, reading a wide range of books and articles, and exposing yourself to new experiences. Additionally, tools such as scenario planning and first-principles thinking can also be used to shift perspective.

perspective pic.twitter.com/xGoUKbTDRC

— Vala Afshar (@ValaAfshar) October 8, 2022

It's all a matter of perspective. pic.twitter.com/KY8Z2j3J7z

— James Peters | Transformational Mindset Coach (@JamesCPeters) January 17, 2023

What are some strategies for changing ones perspective?

Changing one’s perspective can be challenging, but it can be achieved through various strategies, here are 10 of them:

1. Reframing: Reframing is the process of looking at a situation from a different angle or point of view. It can help you to see things in a new light and identify new solutions to problems.
2. Expanding your knowledge: Seek to learn new information and gain new knowledge by reading, listening to lectures or podcasts, or taking classes. This can help you to understand different perspectives and develop a broader understanding of the world.
3. Empathy: Practice empathy by trying to understand and relate to the feelings, thoughts, and experiences of others. This can help you to see things from their perspective and understand different viewpoints.
4. Questioning assumptions: Challenge your assumptions by questioning the things you take for granted. This can help you to identify and challenge your own biases and prejudices.
5. Travel: Traveling to different places and cultures can expose you to new perspectives and ways of thinking. A simple change in routine can help change your perspective, and traveling is a game-changer!
6. Seek out diverse perspectives: Seek out diverse perspectives by interacting with people from different backgrounds and cultures, and by listening to voices that are different from your own.
7. Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness practices such as meditation and yoga can help you to be more present in the moment and to see things as they are, rather than as you expect them to be.
8. Reflect: Reflect on your thoughts, feelings, and actions. This can help you to identify patterns in your thinking and to see things from a different perspective.
9. Take a break: Sometimes stepping back from a situation and taking a break can help you to come back to it with a fresh perspective.
10. Seek guidance: Seek guidance from a coach, therapist, or mentor who can provide you with a different perspective and help you to see things in a new light.

Bottom line: One perspective is no perspective. Shifting perspective is an important tool that can help individuals and organizations to make better decisions, solve problems more effectively, and achieve shared goals. By actively seeking out and considering different viewpoints, and by using tools such as scenario planning and first-principles thinking, we can improve our ability to shift perspective and achieve better results.