“If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change”. Dr Wayne Dyer
Wise words from a great man and of extreme relevance in this current situation in which we find ourselves. An unsettling time of unchartered territory where we feel that we are standing in the corridor, waiting for a door to open, revealing the new way of life into which we will emerge.
COVID 19 has affected every one of our daily lives in many ways, and none have remained untouched. Our lives are no longer the same and this brings about opportunities for self-introspection and evolvement. We need to start looking at things differently, with fresh eyes, from a new angle, in other words, gain a new perspective. It can make the acceptance of our new way of life an easy transition.
What is perspective?
Perspective is the way we see life through our filters. A skill that we use to navigate our path, adding to our ever-growing subconscious library of reference. As humans, we have feelings and emotions associated with our experiences according to our make-up. Our view of one situation may be completely different from another person, yet both entirely correct as seen from their perspective.
Where to begin?
As with anything we wish to change, the first steps are recognition, acceptance and willingness to change. So, take a step back. Try to look at the situation objectively, as if you were a by-stander and do not allow your emotions to take over. If we observe from the outside, we can start to see it with fresh eyes, expand our thinking and bring in some new possibilities we may be willing to try. Decide on what you want to change and give it a go.
Some tools you can use
Sound too easy? I agree that sometimes it is hard to see the forest for the trees when you are in the situation, and at times there doesn’t seem to be a solution at hand besides the only one you can see. Take some time to sit with yourself in reflection and try one or two of the following methods.
- Questioning – Ask a couple of people for their perspectives or solutions and ponder over them, trying to see things from a different angle.
- Meditation – find a quiet place or time and go into deep thought around the subject. Note afterwards any changes you may have discovered.
- Journaling – write about your thoughts and whatever ideas come into your head as you are doing this. Reflect on your writing afterwards and see if there is another viewpoint you can adopt.
- Mind-mapping – either on paper or there are many mind-map apps out there you can explore and use to jot down your thoughts and see how they can expand, open and change.
- Do things differently – even if it just starts with the way you approach your chores, your regular routes or your exercise routine. Changing things around physically can help you to shift thought patterns.
You have the power
You have the inner power to change how you view things around you, of forming new patterns and looking at life. It is not about changing who you are, but rather about your expansion and growth, so go ahead and treat yourself to a broadened perspective.
