Perspective is Everything!

I recently discovered the power of perspective and the outcome it can have on the way you think. As a therapist, who specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I have always been aware the concept, how you think directly affects how you feel. When you are able to take a step back and evaluate with careful consideration the way you understand something, you are utilizing perspective.

per·spec·tive :

n. Definition:

1.

a. A view or vista.

b. A mental view or outlook: “It is useful occasionally to look at the past to gain a perspective on the present” (Fabian Linden).

2. The appearance of objects in depth as perceived by normal binocular vision.

3.

a. The relationship of aspects of a subject to each other and to a whole: a perspective of history; a need to view the problem in the proper perspective.

b. Subjective evaluation of relative significance; a point of view: the perspective of the displaced homemaker.

c. The ability to perceive things in their actual interrelations or comparative importance: tried to keep my perspective throughout the crisis.

4. The technique of representing three-dimensional objects and depth relationships on a two-dimensional surface.

To be mindful and utilize perspective to understand something better in order to respond rather than react is a great goal to aim for. People make snap judgments and are quick to react in anger, when there is a chance they don’t understand what is truly going on.

Ask yourself next time you become upset:

·         What are the intention(s) behind the upset?

·         How am I feeling?    Is there something that is physically effecting your emotions, like hunger or fatigue?

·         What has happened in the last 24-48 hours that could be triggering your emotions or is not allowing you to cope this time?

·         How can I look at this differently to see the positive rather than the negative?

·         Can I manage to stay present focused?

·         What coping skills can I utilize to establish or remain calm?

Hire your inner detective and calmly utilize perspective to understand what is going on and how you want to feel. Sometimes it is mind over matter and this skill can help people learn to pick and choose their emotional battles and lead to a happier and healthier lifestyle.