3 Ways to Shift Perspective

It’s all about perspective, (or so they say) we have 3 ways to shift perspective to optimism.

The best way to describe perspective would be from the story about the tree that grew sideways. A tree was situated in the middle of a huge park when a man came along and noticed it. He immediately felt disappointed because he thought it was ugly. He couldn’t understand why the tree was left there and not cut down for a more beautiful and upright tree to be planted. Everything about it felt wrong for him, so he went along his way with a frown.

A short while later, another man walked up and saw the same tree. Immediately, he was in awe. He couldn’t believe that a tree could be so unique and beautiful. He marveled at how over time, it had adjusted to the force of the wind or to angle itself toward the sun. He walked away smiling to himself at the wonder of this beautiful tree. 

Much like these two men, we have choices in how we look at things. When things get hard, we can choose to see only the bad, or we can choose to see the lesson and shift our perspective. We can choose to see the difficult aspects of our lives as things that help us to adapt, like the tree did with the wind and the sun. 

I’m not saying this is easy.

Of course, we all have days when we don’t feel like being positive and we don’t want to find another perspective. It takes practice to challenge our automatic thoughts and perspectives, and to realize that our first thought is not always the right one. However, when we notice our automatic thoughts and make an intentional effort to consider other perspectives, we can get through the hardest life situations with a sense of purpose, or at the very least, feel good about how we responded. 

There are many ways to change your perspective.

Here are 3 Ways to Shift Perspective:

  1. Look for a wider perspective

When you’re in the midst of an upsetting situation. If you think about how much the upsetting thing will matter to you 10 years, 5 years, or even one year down the road, you may realize that it isn’t such a big deal. During a really difficult time in my life, a wise friend told me, “just imagine how much better things will be for you a year from now,” and boy was she right. Nothing lasts forever. Whether something is great or horrible, it is all temporary. So, you have to remember to enjoy the good when it is there, and you can take solace in the fact that the bad will be over soon. 

  1. Express gratitude

Sometimes we think the grass is greener on the other side, or that we will finally feel better or be happier when XY or Z happens. However, appreciating where you are and what you have right now will make a huge impact on your happiness. When you choose to see how fortunate you are for current people, situations, or things in your life, you begin to feel a sense of joy. By doing this, you also create more of the good in your life because you open yourself up to opportunities that you otherwise may not have seen.

  1. Remember that when one door closes, another door opens

Whether you have gone through a breakup, lost a job, learned about a medical condition, or any other difficult situation, considering your perspective about the possibilities is important. When your energy is on something that isn’t right for you, you can’t devote your energy to something that is. So it is helpful to remember that no matter what is ending, it is freeing you up for something else that could bring you joy and fulfillment.

How We Can Help

If you want additional support, we offer some different options:

  • We offer support groups, workshops, and wellness retreats in additional to mental health counseling and therapy. You can find more details at www.tribemindbody.com/events