Changing Your Perspective Can Change Your Life
Start writing a post
Lifestyle

Changing Your Perspective In a Small Way Can Mean Changing Your Life In a Big Way

"It's not what you look at, it's what you see." -Henry David Thoreau

21
Changing Your Perspective In a Small Way Can Mean Changing Your Life In a Big Way
Photo by Amanda Jones on Unsplash

Maybe you're reading this as a break from your mindless scrolling through your phone from the comfort of your couch. Maybe you're in between meetings and looking for something—anything—else to think about. Or maybe you're procrastinating that trip to the grocery store or gym that you keep finding excuses to get out of. Wherever you are and whatever you're doing, there's probably at least one thing on your to-do list that's making you think, "Ugh I really don't want to do that."

Whether you're a student, employee, parent, friend, caregiver, or all of the above, I know that there's a lot on your mind. With final papers, appointments, deadlines, emails, birthdays, errands, phone calls, and everything in between that need to be remembered, attended, submitted, or completed, feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and stressed is often unavoidable...or is it?

In a world getting busier by the second, it is easy to define life in black and white, success and failure, or right and wrong, but in doing so we often miss the steps, people, experiences, lessons, opportunities, and moments in between that can offer even more than the end result itself. It's just like if you were set to go on a hike up a tall mountain, but dreaded the climb itself and only cared about getting to the top. Instead of relishing in the incredible views, natural beauty, and adventure of the ascent itself, only focusing on and imagining what the top of the mountain must look like leaves no room for finding joy, awe, or inspiration along the way. The same scenario applies to every other aspect or situation in our lives, too.

If we view the things we don't want to do with the same negativity, complacence or disinterestedness, how can we ever expect to seize opportunities or enjoy things as they come? Instead of viewing everything as fixed, unmoving, and permanent, being open to flexibility and the discomfort that comes with change and growth requires us to hold ourselves accountable, and focus on the learning that comes from the process, or on the way to the end.

Instead of viewing minor changes of plan as inconveniences, allow the possibility of something else to shine through as a blessing of sorts. Instead of sitting in traffic, cursing passing drivers, and getting frustrated at what you cannot control, see that extra time alone as time for reflection, organization of thought, and peace in the midst of chaos. When the older lady in front of you in line at the grocery store is taking too long, look around and realize that everyone is in the same position as you—in a rush to nowhere. By focusing on the lessons or moments in between, instead of on the problem or end result alone, we allow ourselves the possibility of finding new interests, talents, and freedom to take more chances.

If you look at the above examples, nothing about the physical environment changed. Traffic didn't miraculously clear up and the grocery store managers didn't open a checkout lane just for you, but what did change was your perspective. Keeping your end goals in mind, but not making it your sole focus, and ensuring that you appreciate the small things along the way can make all the difference. Stop and smell the roses from time to time, you might like what you find.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

55616
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less
a man and a woman sitting on the beach in front of the sunset

Whether you met your new love interest online, through mutual friends, or another way entirely, you'll definitely want to know what you're getting into. I mean, really, what's the point in entering a relationship with someone if you don't know whether or not you're compatible on a very basic level?

Consider these 21 questions to ask in the talking stage when getting to know that new guy or girl you just started talking to:

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

Challah vs. Easter Bread: A Delicious Dilemma

Is there really such a difference in Challah bread or Easter Bread?

35860
loaves of challah and easter bread stacked up aside each other, an abundance of food in baskets
StableDiffusion

Ever since I could remember, it was a treat to receive Easter Bread made by my grandmother. We would only have it once a year and the wait was excruciating. Now that my grandmother has gotten older, she has stopped baking a lot of her recipes that require a lot of hand usage--her traditional Italian baking means no machines. So for the past few years, I have missed enjoying my Easter Bread.

Keep Reading...Show less
Adulting

Unlocking Lake People's Secrets: 15 Must-Knows!

There's no other place you'd rather be in the summer.

957861
Group of joyful friends sitting in a boat
Haley Harvey

The people that spend their summers at the lake are a unique group of people.

Whether you grew up going to the lake, have only recently started going, or have only been once or twice, you know it takes a certain kind of person to be a lake person. To the long-time lake people, the lake holds a special place in your heart, no matter how dirty the water may look.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Top 10 Reasons My School Rocks!

Why I Chose a Small School Over a Big University.

186336
man in black long sleeve shirt and black pants walking on white concrete pathway

I was asked so many times why I wanted to go to a small school when a big university is so much better. Don't get me wrong, I'm sure a big university is great but I absolutely love going to a small school. I know that I miss out on big sporting events and having people actually know where it is. I can't even count how many times I've been asked where it is and I know they won't know so I just say "somewhere in the middle of Wisconsin." But, I get to know most people at my school and I know my professors very well. Not to mention, being able to walk to the other side of campus in 5 minutes at a casual walking pace. I am so happy I made the decision to go to school where I did. I love my school and these are just a few reasons why.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments