Need a New Perspective?

Yesterday I wrote about how being on one side of the fence versus the other can really alter your perspective.  Still lovin’ the ideas that get conjured up from that understanding.  Today I feel compelled to write about finding new perspectives.  Because while new perspectives can be useful, you’ve got to know how to get them in order to be able to benefit.

In a nutshell, finding a new perspective is all about mixing things up.  When you’re feeling stuck, bored, unimaginative, or in any way “lack-lustre”, a new perspective – a new way to view things – is really helpful.  Here are a few ways to find one that serves:

-indulge in a pyjama day.  That’s right, get out of your everyday work clothes, and relax — if not in pj’s then in something different from your usual attire.  What you wear can definitely influence your thinking.

-find a new location or position.  If you always sit facing a wall, switch it up and face the window.  If you always work in your office, go work in the boardroom.  If the weather allows, work outdoors.  A change of scenery is sure to kickstart new ideas and insights.

-find a new group of people – or no people at all.  If you’re always surrounded by the same people, you’ll always have the same energy influencing your perspective.  So go visit another department, work in solitude, or migrate to a coffee shop.  New energies can really serve new perspectives.

-change your routine.  If you follow a set agenda everyday, mix it up a little.  Eat lunch earlier, start your day later, begin with a workout, incorporate some dreaming time.

-music.  As in “play some”.  And if music in the background is part of your environment, then play some different music.  It’s a well-known fact that different genres of music affect mental processes differently.  Generally listen to jazz? Try some classical Beethoven.  Big fan of rock?  Try a little bit of country.  Better yet, put in a kids cd and let yourself be a kid again.  A child’s perspective is a great thing!

Bottom-line:  a shift in perspective really does serve everyone well.  Try it.  See what happens.  And let me know.  I’d love to hear your thoughts.