There is Another Way to Look at Something.

March 3, 2026

“We are disturbed not by things, but by the views which we take of them.”- Epictetus, Stoic Philosopher

Psychotherapist Dr. Ilene Strauss Cohen, Ph.D., wrote that perspective refers to the mental framework through which individuals view the world around them. She added that perspective influences our daily interactions and decision-making processes.

Other professional sources define perspective as your specific, conscious viewpoint or interpretation of a particular situation or event, which can change, depending on the angle you choose.

Our perspectives impact on how we face different situations, good or bad, particularly stressful situations. Worry and anxiety have often accompanied me on my journey over the last several years. I admit both worry and anxiety influence my decision-making in numerous ways. They play a big part in creating my perspective.

Cohen wrote that our perspectives can either restrict or empower us. Limiting beliefs, such as rigid thinking patterns or negative self-perceptions, can hinder personal growth and well-being.

This month, my family is preparing to pack up some of our belongings to a storage unit and get ready for a big home renovation that begins mid-April. We will be adding a full dormer on the second floor of our home and building a second bathroom.

My perspective: Part of me is excited that the project will start in April, but part of me starts worrying about all that could go wrong delaying the project or adding to the cost. This influences and changes my perspective. I go from excitement and good anticipation of getting a new bedroom and bath to fear that project will be a nuisance, and it better be over quickly and not drag on.

Hubby’s perspective: He is looking forward to having more room upstairs and he will not have to go down the stairs for the bathroom. Yes, he is concerned about the costs. However, he sees the benefits outweighing the challenges of such a project.

My son’s perspective: My younger son, who lives with us, is incredibly stressed out about the project. He will be moving to his brother’s place temporarily as the renovation is occurring. The thought of packing up his belongings, even temporarily, is weighing heavily on him. It has been his bedroom for his entire life, and he is twenty-seven years old.

Same situation but three different perspectives on what that means to each of us.

What shapes our perspectives? There are various theories on the formation of perspective.

According to Psychology Today, the Social Learning theory suggests we acquire our perspective through observation and modeling after significant others. This theory emphasizes the social interactions we have with our parents and peers in shaping our beliefs and values.

Other theories mentioned are called cognitive theories. These theories emphasize the role of individual thought processes and mental structures in shaping our perspectives of t he world. As we mature cognitively, we become better able to understand multiple perspectives and therefore develop a more complex world view.

Lest we forget, our experiences in life also play an important role in shaping our perspectives.

As part of my research into perspective, I also encountered the term mindset. I honestly thought that mindset and perspective were similar. Perhaps I conflated the words.

Mindset is the established, often unconscious set of beliefs and attitudes that shape how you approach life (e.g., growth vs. fixed mindset), acting as your internal programming. Carol Dweck is a world-renowned Stanford University Psychologist who has done decades of research on the power of mindset.

According to Cara Tyrrell, M. ED, a parenting coach, mindset and perspective are inextricably connected.However, “mindset is based in self-awareness. A practice of training our brains how we think about the world and to believe in what is possible,” wrote Tyrrell.

How much of what we see and think about the world reflects our internal beliefs and thoughts. We color everything with our individual perspective, wrote Scott Miker, author and growth strategist.

“Because perception is reality, what we think we know becomes much more meaningful to us than what is real,” wrote Miker. He suggests that we challenge our internal biases.

What filters are you using to view the world, your circumstances, your current situation?

Perspective without mindset is like a camera angle without a filter—you can change views, but you lack the interpretive layer, wrote Al Shalloway.

Changing one’s perspective offers its own growing pain. It can be transformative, and yet challenging, as long held beliefs become open to new information and ideas. Be patient and compassionate with yourself. It will take time. It happens incrementally.

Cohen stated that understanding the power of perspective is essential for creating a fulfilling and resilient mindset. In my next blog post, I will delve further into the concept of mindset.

Resources

Image retrieved on 3/3/2026 from https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/person-holding-frame-with-open-nature-landscape-concept_36295216.htm

Cherry, MSED, Kendra. “What is Perception? Recognizing Environmental Stimuli Through the Five Senses.” 11/9/2025. Retrieved from https://www.verywellmind.com/perception-and-the-perceptual-process-2795839

Cohen, Ph.D., Ilene Strauss. “The Power of Perspective: Understanding the influence of perspective on our lives.” 6/3/2024. Retrieved on 3/3/2026 from https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/your-emotional-meter/202406/the-power-of-perspective

Dyer, Wayne. “Success Secrets.” Retrieved on 1/11/2026 from https://www.drwaynedyer.com/blog/tag/the-way-you-look-at-things/

Dyer, Wayne. Retrieved on 1/11/2026 from https://www.instagram.com/p/CSh7O8KFxFl/

Miker, Scott.“Change the Way You Look at Things.” Retrieved on 1/11/2026 from https://www.scottmiker.com/change-the-way-you-look-at-things

Murphy, Andy. “Seven Quotes That Flip Life on Its Head.” Retrieved on 1/11/2026 from https://andycmurphy1.medium.com/seven-quotes-that-flip-life-on-its-head-de46a1e74fdd

Red Fairy Project. “Change the Way You Look at Things.” Retrieved on 1/11/2026 from https://redfairyproject.com/mind/daily-inspiration/change-the-way-you-look-at-things/

Shalloway, Al. “Why Perspective is more important than Mindset.” Retrieved on 3/2/2026 from https://www.linkedin.com/posts/alshalloway_why-perspective-is-more-important-than-mindset-activity-7371982991641751552-JD4j/

Tyrrell, M. ED, Cara. “Mindset Vs. Perspective” Retrieved on 3/2/2026 from https://www.caratyrrell.com/blog/mindset-vs-perspective

There is Another Way to Look at Something.

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