The common exhortations:
“Walk a mile in his moccasins.”
“Seek first to understand.”
“You cannot solve a problem with the same mind that created it.”
All point to the vital need to consider alternative perspectives when approaching difficult situations, people or problems. And for most people, this present a major problem.
Whenever something happens it is easy to jump to conclusions based on our own usual perspective. As we drive down that route, our brains filter the evidence to confirm and reinforce our initial perspective or beliefs. Thus, we get trapped into a particular viewpoint that is then used to attempt to act in that situation or solve the problem.
But, is it the best angle to take?
In the video linked below I give an example of the practical process of using different perspectives to find potential solutions to getting a Gem hidden inside an egg. It’s not complicated, it just takes presence of mind.
For instance, if you are facing a process problem, your natural perspective might be as the user or owner of the process. Alternative perspectives to take when looking at the problem and finding possible solutions could include the customer, supplier, application developer, regulator, line-manager, subordinate.
You cannot consider every possible perspective, so select a range of ones that will give you a good tour round the problem you are considering.
A word of warning however. When you consider each perspective do so with an independent mind. Not one still rooted in your primary perspective. Otherwise you’ll quickly negate any ideas that float to the surface.
It takes practice, but once you’ve got the hang of it, it can also be fun too. Oh, and get your team involved too. See who is best at acting out the role of the auditor, judge or whatever.
Related to Perspective Thinking
- Perspectives: How to Open an Egg
- I’m Right, You’re Wrong: Influence Undercurrents
- Improving Processes for Problem and Conflict Resolution
Colin Gautrey
Provocative Coach/Mentor | Specialism: Impact and Influence
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