Developing Usable Experiences

The importance of perspective

March 3rd, 2008 10:27 pm —  157 views

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How we look at things matters a lot. And by a lot, I mean A LOT. If perspective is rooted in perception, then considering what you don’t see is just as important as what you do see.

Consider a definition of the word ‘perspective’; “the faculty of seeing all the relevant data in a meaningful relationship.”1 All the relevant data? What?!? Can we ever see all the relevant data for any given situation?2 Considering the number of facets to any circumstance, to make any sort of conclusion seems short-sighted and forever premature.

Today was a bit of a roller-coaster as I struggled with some inner demons. They are my demons, regardless of what others might think. How I deal with things and how I perceive things is up to me. I know this. I can look at things negatively, positively, or neutrally. Finding and following the middle way means finding the way that is neutral. Avoiding attachment while staying engaged. Not so easy.

Apparently I am known to be a bit of an opinionated and aggressive person. While I won’t deny this, I see no reason to defend it. Worth noting is my inclination toward introspection. I think about the stupid stuff I do, and have done, and use what I can from those experiences. I’m a moonlighting student and this means that I’m constantly learning, constantly searching for lessons, always looking for new perspectives. My mind is as open as my mouth.

Unfortunately it is the open mouth that is heard more than the open mind. All I can do is keep learning, keep moonlighting, keep pushing myself toward self-actualization.

Another month and a half until golf season starts and summer gets into full swing.3 It seems like a long way off but my how time flies. Lots to do between now and then. Lots to do in general.

Estonia seems a million miles away. Ha, maybe it is. Thanks for sharing Baldrick.

Image: This picture was taken from W.’s hotel room in New York last week. She took my camera with her and snapped a number of really cool pictures. I liked this one because the cars are small, the building are large, and it is impersonal enough to fit this post.

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  1. See perspective. [↩]
  2. Maybe. But in general, there are always things you don’t know and don’t know you don’t know. One has to accept this. [↩]
  3. Oh the pun! I’m killing myself here. [↩]

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Comments

2 Responses to “The importance of perspective”

  1. Cathie on March 4th, 2008 9:44 am

    I know you struggle with how the world perceives you (as we all do), but having had the pleasure of working with you my last semester, I have to say that although I can’t always relate to your strong will and determination, I both respect it and benefited from it. Give yourself a little slack, you’re a good guy and the people that matter know it.

  2. Dawn on March 6th, 2008 9:55 am

    Ditto.

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