WHAT DOES PERSPECTIVE MEAN?

You appreciate when people see things in different ways. You have the ability to understand the world from multiple points of view. Perspective is also referred to as wisdom and is distinct from intelligence. People with this strength are sought out for advice because they see the big picture and can make sense of the world’s complexity. This strength of perspective gives individuals the ability to see to the heart of difficult matters and achieve clarity. Most importantly, they are honest and behave in an ethically consistent manner.

Perspective is usually gained over time, as one accumulates more knowledge and experiences. However, developing perspective is not only a matter of time. It comes from truly listening to others when they talk and working to understand new points of view when reading books, listening to stories, or watching movies.

WHY DOES PERSPECTIVE MATTER?

Perspective helps an individual make sense of the world. It provides clarity on what matters and what does not. Being able to see things from multiple angles helps individuals remain calm and learn from mistakes; they are typically highly self-aware. Reflecting on their own feelings, thoughts, and motives helps them understand and empathize with other people. These individuals are strong listeners and ask great questions. On a group level, perspective helps couples, teams, communities, and societies act wisely and correctly. Individuals with the strength of perspective help their group get through difficult or uncertain circumstances because they’re poised and can identify opportunities for success. Moving into an increasingly complex future, the need for individuals with perspective will only increase.

Individuals with this strength are likely to think, feel, or behave in the following ways:

• I am aware of my own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
• Self-awareness is important to me.
• I am able to accurately articulate  my strengths and weaknesses.
• I have the ability to identify and analyze larger patterns.
• Friends, family members, or coworkers often seek my advice.
• It is important to consider all sides’ needs, thoughts, and opinions before acting.
• I am able to see to the core of important problems.

​QUOTES ON PERSPECTIVE

• “Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.” - ARISTOTLE
• “The simple things are also the most extraordinary thing, and only the wise can see them.” - PAULO COELHO
• “Knowledge speaks, but wisdom listens.” - JIMI HENDRIX
• “We could never learn to be brave and patient if there were only joy in the world.” -HELEN KELLER

Wherever you are in your life, in your relationships. Every person you encounter, every experience… the person wants to know: Was that okay?