Perception and perspective are two threads intricately woven together, often confused or misunderstood. They shape our understanding of the world and influence our actions but operate in distinct ways. Perception refers to how we interpret sensory information, while perspective is the lens through which we view and interpret the world based on our unique experiences, beliefs, and values.

Imagine standing on a busy street corner, watching the flow of people passing by. Each individual perceives the scene differently based on their senses—what they see, hear, smell, and feel. However, their perspective truly colors their understanding of the situation. Someone might see the crowd as energizing, a vibrant display of human activity. Another person might find it overwhelming, feeling lost in the sea of faces and noise.

This is also true for challenging moments in someone’s life. For example, trauma is not the same for everyone. I grew up in the ghetto with all the things the ghetto brings, like drugs, violence, and hardship. However, my perception of the ghetto might have been gangs and dilapidated buildings, but my perspective was that this was home. This life of adversity would make me strong if I didn’t let it consume me. I saw it as an opportunity, whereas others might see it as a circumstance.

Perception is immediate, instinctive, influenced by our senses, and often shaped by societal norms and personal biases. The rapid processing of information allows us to navigate the world around us. Perspective, on the other hand, is more complex and deeply rooted. Our upbringing, culture, education, and life experiences shape it. Our viewpoint acts as a filter through which we interpret and make sense of the information gathered through perception.

One of the most profound aspects of perspective is its ability to offer an informational advantage. When we take the time to understand someone else’s perspective, we gain insights that may not be immediately apparent through our perception. This can be especially valuable in personal relationships, professional settings, and broader societal interactions.

Consider a disagreement between two colleagues at work. From one person’s perspective, the issue may seem trivial, while from the other’s perspective, it’s deeply significant. By actively listening to each other’s perspectives, they can uncover underlying motivations, concerns, and values that may not have been initially apparent. This deeper understanding can lead to more effective communication, collaboration, and conflict resolution.

Looking at someone through their perspective doesn’t just offer insights into their thoughts and feelings—it also fosters empathy and compassion. When we see the world through another person’s eyes, we can better appreciate their experiences and challenges. This empathy can strengthen relationships, build trust, and bridge divides between individuals and communities.

In today’s interconnected world, where diversity of thought and experience is celebrated, appreciating different perspectives is more important than ever. Understanding the struggles of marginalized communities, navigating cross-cultural communication, or fostering innovation through diverse teams, a willingness to embrace different perspectives can lead to richer, more meaningful experiences and outcomes.

Though it is nice to live in a fantasy, we must look at the true utilization of perception and perspective. You would want to look at something from someone’s perspective to gain an informational advantage. Though this might seem underhanded, you can use it as leverage in negotiation when trying to sway another person. For example, if I spoke with a client who was a part of the LGBTQ community. I would take an approach from above. I would speak on inclusivity and community working together to bridge connectivity with less divide.

Though this may not be many people’s true feelings, I can use other people’s perspectives against them, framing the outcome how I see fit. This variable is difficult to predict, but most people think similarly or linearly, so it is not rocket science; you just have to pay attention. This skill can qualify an argument or stoke it until the point of volatility.

Essentially, you cannot force someone to take your views into concern. You can express your perception or perspective to someone and determine if they share the same views as you. This is something that is happening quite commonly today. People want to surround themselves with people who think like them. They do not want to fight for their beliefs or opinions even if they know they are incorrect. They believe that if they create an environment for delusion, it will become a reality; to them, it does become real.

So, how can we cultivate a deeper appreciation for perspective in our own lives? It starts with curiosity and open-mindedness. Actively seek out diverse viewpoints, engage in meaningful conversations with people from different backgrounds, and challenge your own assumptions and biases. Practice empathy and active listening, striving to understand what someone is saying, why they’re saying it, and how they feel.

The other side to it is to focus on the holes in their thinking so you can determine if this is a person you would want to remain near. This is not to say that people are inherently wrong, but it is to say that you have a choice in who you spend your time with. They say you are the product of the five closest people in your life. Would you want someone with a positive perspective on seemingly negative things or someone who cannot see past the negative and creates an unwanted stigma? It depends on your discussion because you can share both mindsets for different areas or topics.

In closing, perspective alongside perception unlocks a world of understanding, connection, and growth. We become not just observers of the human experience but active participants in its richness and complexity. So, let us endeavor to see the world not just through our own eyes but through the myriad perspectives that make it so beautifully diverse and endlessly fascinating. Even when this is done, you still have complete control over the final decision you create. If your choice will help build you into the person you wish to become, then it doesn’t matter what anyone else may think. You get to choose to live your life the way you want to, and if you are confused about what that is for you, sign up for coaching today.

Until then,

Michael Rearden

Founder of Reven Concepts