Jill unfolded her napkin and placed it in her lap. Kevin opened his briefcase, took out the document and handed it to Jill. As she glanced at it, her eyes began to fill with tears, and the waiter quickly changed direction, knowing that the couple at table 23 would need some time.

What just happened? Divorce papers, a letter of resignation, the final paperwork on a first home?

Like a lot of things in life, this scene is open to interpretation. We don’t know the inner workings or the dynamics of the couple. We don’t even know who they are. But based on our own prejudices, hopes, fears, and world-view, we’ll view a situation from the perspective that most closely resembles our own. How about changing that…

An Upside-Down View

As a kid, did you ever hang upside-down, either off the side of your bed or on monkey bars? Do you remember viewing the world upside-down, and imagining what it would be like to live that way? I used to imagine playing a jumping game between the paddles of a slow moving ceiling fan, or how you’d have to step over the top of the door when going from room to room, if you were walking on the ceiling.

Learning to change your perspective can be a powerful thing.

• When challenges happen, try seeing them from a different point of view. Is this really that bad? Can you [1] learn something? Can you just be with the emotions, for now?
• If you are considering making the leap to self-employment, try looking at things as if you are already your own boss. How would you approach things like your work, family, free time? What would your life be like with your new freedom and drive to succeed?
• Try really seeing things from the point of view of your customers. What do they really want? What can you do to better meet their needs, and exceed their expectations?
• When you are frustrated and struggling, maybe you could use [2] some outside perspective.

Jill couldn’t believe her eyes. From the time she was 8 years old, all she dreamed about was becoming a published author. And now she held a contract with a huge advance in her hand. Kevin knew she had talent, and he was glad he took a chance on her.

What could you view differently?