I didn't see that coming
(And I love it!)
Have you ever watched a movie or television series or read a novel with major plot twists?
Those are my absolute favorites, especially psychological thrillers* rife with unreliable narrators, seemingly “normal” characters, and plenty of cleverly orchestrated and well-paced storytelling to keep you guessing.
In this genre, there’s always a moment where everything changes, and what you thought was going to happen doesn’t, forcing you to shift your point of view.
For most of us, that shift in perspective is one we’ll willingly adopt, yet we often have trouble applying the same level of perspective acceptance to our professional worlds.
Perspective can be the difference between someone’s career soaring or sinking, but there is good news for those who occupy the latter camp.
Here are two encouraging truths about perspective:
1. It's a choice
Our perspective often correlates to the degree of pessimism or optimism we possess.
When we’re pessimistic, we tend to adopt a victim mentality, which negatively affects our attitude in harmful ways. We also tend to judge others and make up our minds before listening and learning about alternatives.
However, those who choose optimism tend to be curious and tolerant of new ideas and people and are less likely to be thrown off course because of an unexpected setback. Their openness builds trust naturally, which allows them to connect with others more easily.
2. It can change
Fortunately, even if we have a less-than-desirable perspective, we can shift our mindset to view things through a new lens.
If you’re stuck in a fixed mindset, you believe your intelligence or talent is set in stone. Worse, you’re likely allowing fear to creep in and make you feel that what you’re doing doesn’t matter.
But switching to a growth mindset means you believe you can—and will—improve and see every opportunity as a chance to grow and learn.
One easy way you to change your perspective?
Let your curiosity lead you.
In my latest Forbes article, I share five reasons why leading with this soft skill** is better for your career than following your passion.
Shine on,
Amy
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P.P.S. When I’m not writing this newsletter or completely absorbed in psychological thrillers (#SorryNotSorry), I’m a social media ghostwriter. (Yep, that’s a thing). I help founders, entrepreneurs, and CXOs craft their stories to communicate and connect better by magnifying their reach and impact. (Think personal branding and thought leadership.) Learn more here.
P.P.P.S. You, my coruscant friend, have great taste in newsletters—thanks for subscribing! Be sure to check out the archives to catch up on previous issues, and feel free to share this one with your friends. Or better yet, invite them to join our Illuminate Me tribe!
*Some of my faves include: The Usual Suspects, the Netflix series YOU, and nearly any novel by Lianne Moriarty, Greer Hendricks & Sarah Pekkanen, or Lucy Foley. (True confession: One of my long-term goals is to finish writing the psychological thriller novel I’ve started.) Are you a fan of this genre too? I’d love to get your recommendations on not-to-be-missed films, shows, and books.
**I want you to learn how to cultivate and apply soft skills to your career, so I’ve created a multi-week series of articles on Forbes. My most recent article joins previously published pieces on empathy, persuasion, connecting with others, listening, communication, creativity, collaboration, adaptability, time management, and awareness.