Principles, Parenting & Purpose

Perspective Is Everything

May 22, 2019

Perspective is everything. It defines how you see the universe. Your perspective—and what you value—determine whether you see clearly, or obscure the truth. How you perceive shapes your journey through the universe.

But, just because your perspective yields a unique view of the truth—your truth—does not make all perspectives equally valid.

Comparing what you see from multiple perspectives is the path to seeing the truth more clearly.

Recognize that the ultimate truth transcends individual perspectives. As Plato observed long ago, truth exists in forms that are outside you. When you see from multiple perspectives, then you can see that although those perspectives change what you see, you’re just seeing facets of a deeper truth.

Like looking at the flaw within a diamond, every facet yields a different perspective.

Take the following perspectives, for example:

“I am a failure. I never do anything right. Everything always goes wrong for me.”

“I am extraordinary. I can accomplish anything. And I don’t have to work at it… everything always works out for me effortlessly.”

“I am extraordinary. I can accomplish anything. Most often, things work out well for me. But when they don’t, I figure out what went wrong, and learn about where I can be stronger or better. I focus my time and efforts on what matters most to me. And I pay attention. Sometimes I’m wrong and need to adapt.”

Whatever you believe, you'll find evidence for it—but that doesn't make every perspective equally true.

And not all perspectives yield equally beneficial outcomes. If you see yourself as a perpetual failure, you will be blind to successes, will be prone to complaining, and will generally lack gratitude. If you believe everything can be accomplished effortlessly, you’ll either be shocked by challenges, prone to avoiding difficulty, or blind to your errors.

Pay attention, and seek perspectives which consistently yield the best outcomes.