Note: this post was originally written as an Atomic Essay as part of Ship 30 for 30 and posted on Twitter. I’ve copied the essay content here so it isn’t just lost in the endlessness of the Twitter feed. Enjoy!
I’m obsessed with the human experience. I can’t recall what sparked this interest, but I could spend the bulk of my time talking to humans about their life and listening to their stories and be completely content.
Humans. Are. Fascinating. 💥
The good news? People are dying for someone to listen to them. They want to share about their lives, to feel heard and have their feelings validated.
In my years of listening, I noticed most humans are hyper focused on their own experience. When they tell stories that include other people, they don’t typically consider the situation may be different from another point of view. Their perspective equals the truth. Period.
Some of this is the nature of being human, especially if you’re not actively pursuing self-awareness, but it made me take a look at how I view myself and the people around me.
The Perspective Shift
In giving myself the space to consider other points of view, I’ve found myself becoming more compassionate and understanding toward my fellow humans.
Instead of jumping to conclusions, being offended or getting upset by something, I try to see it from another perspective. And it makes all the difference.
Just the act of acknowledging that my perspective isn’t the only one in any given situation has profoundly affected my life for the better.
Of course there are still days when I’m selfish or feel like my point of view is the most valid. I’m an imperfect human, not a robot. 🤖
If you’re someone who is actively trying to be a better human, this is a great way to level up your thinking. Give it a try and then report back 🤩
