Altering PERSPECTIVE

Perspective: Having ways of looking at the world that make sense to oneself and to other people. When were not present, were on autopilot. We make choices without even realizing were affecting our futures. If you can try to stay present, youre able to see those choices youre about to make and slow them down. This helps you see yourself differently.Using perspective is..."the capacity to view things in their true relation or relative importance."
Encountering and overcoming adversity can teach a lot about what IS really important. Dealing with difficult situations leaves you with a new outlook about what is truly important in your life. If, for example, you're faced with a life-threatening illness, poor service in a restaurant will no longer seem very important.
Ideas for Boosting Perspective
oLook at each problem in the context of your entire life.Ask yourself:How important is this difficulty in the overall scheme of things? What will this matter ten years from now?See the problem for what it is--and do not let it dominate your thinking for an entire day, week, or month.
o Spend more time on things which will help you be a better person and make a more significant contribution to happiness.
o Begin to appreciate the amazing complexity of the universe!
o UNDERSTAND that everything happens for a reason.
o Help others less fortunate and at the same time realise just how well off you are!
oFocus on the many things for which you should be grateful!
oBe around people who have a healthy outlook... people who rarely complain, can easily distinguish between what's important and what's not, and who are a joy to be around!
oView every problem as an opportunity for growth. Too often, we see our difficulties as negative experiences which are there to punish us and cause pain. As you look back on your life, you'll find that many problems and painful situations led to personal growth and improved conditions.
o Develop a strong belief that "bad" experiences are there to help you in some way. Don't curse your challenge; instead, look for the lessons or opportunities which your problems are showing you.
oPut yourself in physical surroundings where you can "get away" from everyday stress.Changing your environment can give you a fresh, relaxed point of view. Maybe you like to sit on the beach or take a walk in the woods. Find scenery which allows you to release tension and think creatively. . . and go there as much as possible.
oSimplify your life and restore balance. Easy to say, but not so easy to implement. Sometimes, we get overextended, taking on too many responsibilities or projects. We ignore our loved ones and even our own health. So, maybe it's time to say "NO" to the next project or demand on your time.
oLighten up and laugh. We take ourselves and our activities far too seriously. Find the humor in everyday situations and, most importantly, be willing to laugh at yourself. The very act of smiling and laughing makes us feel better physically and reduces tension.