The Lens Through Which We View Our Life
"There are three sides to every story: your side, my side, and the truth. And no one is lying." - Robert Evans
Perspective is a fascinating concept. It's intriguing how different viewpoints on the same situation can weave a tapestry of diverse narratives. Reflecting on the past year, I've been particularly struck by the perspectives others have shared about my experiences.
The Cambridge Dictionary defines 'perspective' as "a particular way of viewing things that depends on one's experience and personality." Our life experiences indelibly shape our viewpoints. I find this topic captivating because understanding our perspective—and that of others—profoundly influences our reactions to life's events. We can transform our responses to a situation by altering our perception of it.
As the year draws to a close, many of us enter a period of reflection. I challenge you to adjust the lens through which you view the past year. I made this conscious decision to perceive and embrace the positive changes in my physical and mental self. A year that many might label disastrous, I see as liberating, akin to emerging from a cocoon. Despite financial struggles, lost love, and heartbreak, I view this year as one of tremendous growth and blessing.
This shift in perspective didn't happen overnight. It's a continuous effort. Here are the tools that have guided me:
Prayer and Worship: In my moments of trial, as a woman of faith, I sought refuge in God's embrace, asking for strength and the ability to see the goodness in my year. I prayed for healing and the capacity to find love within myself that I could extend to others, even those who caused me pain.
Correcting People: It's your life story; don't let others dictate its narrative. When people spoke on my behalf without my consent, I corrected them. For example, when someone said, "You're in a very bad situation; this year has been really bad," I would interject. I'd assert, "Thank you, but I don't see it that way. Despite its challenges, it's been a wonderful year."
Finding an Outlet: I chose a medium to process my thoughts. When negative thoughts surfaced, I turned to writing and this newsletter. Through writing, I transformed my thoughts from bleak to beautiful.
Changing my perspective has been transformative. It has allowed me to embody happiness and witness its positive impact on my days, weeks, and months. I am happier than I've been in a long time, and this joy continues to grow daily—all stemming from how I've adjusted the lens through which I view the world.
In next week's newsletter, we'll explore a timely topic: 'Scrapping the New Year Goal Setting.' This piece will reveal the empowering idea of stepping into the new year without conventional goals, illustrating how any moment can mark the beginning of your 'new year.'
I'll share my personal experience of welcoming 2023 without set goals and how my 'new year' truly began in the summer. By presenting an alternative approach to the traditional 'New Year, New Me' mindset, I aim to alleviate any pressure or dread you might be feeling as we approach 2024."
I'll speak to you in next week's article!
Love,
Ejiro
Bounce Back Guide - 17.12.23
Book
In this week’s article, I’ve delved into the power of perspective and how altering our viewpoint can transform our experiences. This book has helped me in the early stages of difficulty when I needed help reframing my mindset. Dr. Carol Dweck's "Mindset” book explores the concept of 'fixed' versus 'growth' mindsets, illustrating how our beliefs about our abilities shape our behaviour and predict our success.
I am hoping this book gives you a deeper understanding of the psychological underpinnings of perspective. It empowers me and many others to embrace change, learn from setbacks, and approach life's challenges with resilience.
Podcast
Change Your Perspective (and it will change your life). with Forrest Hanson and Dr Rick Hanson
I think the title says it all and is a more detailed conversation about what I have shared, it is nice to listen to experts discuss this topic and it was an episode I enjoyed. I hope you do too. You can find the episode on Spotify also.
Thank you for reading. We've all hit rock bottom or experienced a setback but we don't have to stay there. Starting over isn't easy, so I'll share insights, lessons, and tips every week to help you rebuild a happier, healthier you. As an entrepreneur, a mother, and a woman with big ambitions, I'm walking this path with you.
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