Behind Perspective-Taking: How Shifting Your View Can Enhance Understanding and Improve Connections Perspective-taking, by influencing how messages are phrased and received, improves communication and reduces misunderstandings and distortions.
See also related blogs in this 40000 foot view series.
First, a definition: Perspective-taking takes place when an individual views a situation from another's point-of-view and has been defined along two dimensions: perceptual and conceptual. Perceptual perspective-taking is the ability to understand how another person experiences things through their senses (i.e. visually or auditorily). Conceptual perspective-taking is the ability to comprehend and take on the viewpoint of another person's psychological experience (i.e. thoughts, feelings, and attitudes).
To fully understand perspective-taking, one must first recognize that there is another way of viewing a situation.
This is where the challenge lies: how can two individuals see the same situation so differently? If this concept is not understood and accepted, these differences are likely to hinder a shared sense of reality, obstructing conflict resolution. It’s ironic that the key to effective communication and reconciliation lies in recognizing the uniqueness of perspectives, while simultaneously striving to find a point of 'shared reality.
This is where the challenge lies: how can two individuals see the same situation so differently?
Emotional Intelligence (EI), also known as Emotional Quotient (EQ), gained popularity in the 1990s. It is seen as a measure of one's awareness of emotions, the ability to regulate them, and the capacity to communicate effectively.
In the business world, companies began using tools to identify the strengths and weaknesses of employees and leaders, which contributed to better team collaboration. A pivotal factor of EI is its connection to perspective-taking—the ability to understand and appreciate the emotions and viewpoints of others.
By fostering Emotional Intelligence, individuals can enhance their ability to navigate the differing perspectives.
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Note the following list of positive outcomes from Psychology Today:
Because most of us are not naturally wired to see beyond our own self-limiting perspective, developing the skills necessary to enhance our perceptions will need be practiced and developed.
Practice the following strategies:
- Ask open-ended questions rather than yes or no questions. ‘What’ questions are very effective.
- Role-play – and switch roles among each other. Consider taking an improvisation class or course.
- Readily seek out differing perspectives on topics.
- Self-examine to identify personal biases, blind spots, and emotional barriers.
- Reflect on your firmly held opinions to ensure they are based upon facts and evidence.
- Take the DISC assessment to determine your unique personality and communication style.
- Hire a coach to hone your leadership skills and strengthen your ability to navigate interactions with various personality types.
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In conclusion, perspective-taking is more than a cognitive skill. In line with my perspective, I’m deeply interested in stepping back and seeing the bigger picture—moving beyond a narrow, myopic view to gain a broader, more comprehensive understanding of any situation. It’s a crucial element in fostering deeper understanding and stronger connections. By embracing different viewpoints, we open ourselves up to better communication, conflict resolution, and collaboration, both personally and professionally. With practice and intentionality, we can refine our ability to step into others' shoes, leading to more meaningful relationships and a greater sense of shared reality.
If you would like more information or are interested in learning more, reach out to me today.