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The Power of Perspective
by Linda-Ann Stewart
My mother was an incredible life and spiritual coach. Whenever I'd get upset, she'd ask, "Will this matter in five years? If not, let it go." She always advised me to take a long term perspective on life.
If I had an argument with a boyfriend, and it wasn't a fundamental problem in the relationship, she urged me to move on. When I was unhappy over giving a less than stellar presentation, she recommended that I learn from it and focus on the next one. If the issue would be insignificant in five years, she figured that it wasn't worth getting stressed over it in the present.
Sage Advice
Her advice can be used for most disappointments you deal with. Put the situation into perspective by determining how big an impact it's going to have in your life in a few years. If you'll barely remember it, then learn what you can from it and put it behind you. Focus on what's next for you and allow that vision to pull you forward.
You Have the Power of Perspective
Even if you have a major problem in your life, your perspective can make it better or worse. Robert Schuller said, "Tough times don't last, tough people do." You have control over how you respond to any situation. If you continue to ruminate over something that happened, or hold onto resentment over it, then you'll have a hard time recovering.
You can become bitter if you get stuck in suffering. Focusing on a negative event can create a habit of focusing on what you don't have. This can lead to making decisions that aren't in your best interests in an attempt to avoid pain.
However, when you choose to find a way to overcome a circumstance, you can improve the quality of your life. A crisis can lead to opportunities you never would have noticed, thought of seeking out or taken advantage of.
Divorce, a lost job, a house burning down all can lead to something better if you keep your options open. First, acknowledge the loss and allow yourself to grieve. Then, switch your attention to what resources you have to create a new experience. Set your subconscious to scan your life for opportunities. In a few months or a year, you could be in a much better position than you are today.
Consider the Outcome
Consider how different your life could be in five years.
- Will the current setback still be a major stumbling block?
- If so, how can you turn it into a launching pad?
- How much will the situation matter in five years?
- What can you do to improve the situation?
Your attitude and authority over the situation will determine how it will affect your life, for better or worse. When you take a longer term view of circumstances, you'll have the strength and ability to triumph. And you'll have less wear and tear on your psyche.
Copyright © 2009-2023 Linda Ann Stewart
All Rights Reserved
As a focus coach, hypnotherapist, and speaker, Linda-Ann Stewart motivates women to focus and transform their business through deliberate actions that break through distraction and overwhelm to greater success, freedom, wellbeing and prosperity. Register for her FREE Design Your Best Day guide and guided meditation at www.Linda-AnnStewart.com/guide.html. You can contact her at LAS@Linda-AnnStewart.com or 928-600-0452.
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