I had a recent conversation that really defined how differently people feel and think about things. Because we were brought up differently and taught to value different things, we tend to perceive things differently. After all perception is reality... right?!
I was told a story about a conversation between 2 ladies on a road trip. In this closed enviornment, it is hard to just walk away, so there is a captive audience. My friend told me that she carried on with a younger lady that continually related everything to her husband. She would say "oh, Bob always says...", Bob and I love to ..., Bob told me this story...., etc, etc. You get the picture. The young lady related a lot of her thoughts to her husband.
Now, here is where the perspective issue comes in. My friend said it drove her crazy to listen to this young lady continue on about her husband. She said she found it incredibly annoying. It sounded to me like my friend also thought very little of this person for this reason. But, for me, I heard something very different. I heard a story about a yound lady who loves, admires, and respects her husband. Our perspectives on this were on opposite ends of the spectrum. After all, isn't that what we all want? We want our spouse to love, Admire, respect, and honor us don't we? I know that is what I want. My wife has told me before that she wants that in our relationship.
Don't you think this yound lady's husband would feel so good about himself if someone said, "It is so nice to finally meet you! Your wife has said so many good things about you!" And look at the benefits to his wife. He is secure in their relationship, feels loved, and in turn respects her so much more. He will in turn, be that much more eager to meet her needs. After all, what you talk about the most is what means the most to you, it is what you value most highly. Obviously, she valued her husband and their relationship.
Now, look at your perspective on things. Do you tend to hear or see the negative in things? Are you a glass is half empty, or a glass is half full kind of person. Perspective IS a direct result of your attitude. So, changing your attitude, will in turn change your perspective. It truly is a choice. You can chose to change your attitude and become a glass half full kind of person by simply challenging yourself to find the positive and chose to go with that.
I'll conclude with this, when you are thinking about a problem personal or professional, do you find yourself role playing arguments in your mind? If so, you will will that to happen. Did you know that? If you are looking for something negative, you will find it, because you have programmed yourself for it. Reprogram your perspective and start looking for the positive today!
Comments(0)