Perspective is one of our greatest abilities. We can intentionally choose to shift our perspective, and look at things differently. One of my favorite perspective shifts when trudging through the crap of difficult times is to stop, and look for the life lessons, and ask: what is life trying to teach me right now?
Thoughts from Kate:
When we get stuck in our automatic and unconscious reactions, we give our power away. Our mindsets can be used to literally change our perspective on the world. The world doesn’t have to change, but we can change the way we look at the world – and therein lies our power. This is why I love psychology so much!
Here are some thoughts on treating life like a school:
- We’re all students of life. There is a humbleness and openness that accompanies this perspective. If you choose to entertain the idea that perhaps we’re all here in a soul-school of sorts, then we’re all students. We’re all learning. We just each have different lessons we’re attempting to master…but no-one is immune to having to learn lessons.
- Growth doesn’t stop. A theme that has been consistently coming up for me lately is to recognize that our personal growth is about becoming, growing and unfolding…but there is no destination to arrive at. As long as we are alive, there will be lessons to learn. This acknowledgement is freeing. We don’t have to sprint to a destination, because life will show up with the next lesson to learn as soon as we arrive, so we may as well enjoy the journey.
- Your willingness to learn is everything. Whether or not you subscribe to this belief, you will hit hurdles in life. Your willingness to look for the lessons is the crucial element that can change how you experience your life. It’s the difference between seeing life as an opportunity or an obstacle.
Quotes to Inspire:
- “Instead of ‘why is this happening?’ try ‘what is this teaching me?‘ – Unknown
- “You will be presented with lessons: You are enrolled in a full-time informal school called ‘life.’ Each day in this school you will have the opportunity to learn lessons. You may like the lessons or hate them, but you have designed them as part of your curriculum.” – Cherie Carter-Scott
- “Most adults have dropped out of the school of life before they reached adulthood.”– Mokokoma Mokhonoana
Something to Try: Reflection
- What is a Life Lesson I’ve been working through or faced over the last 12 months?
- What have I learned?
- What do I still need to be aware of?
- What actions can I take that will help me continue to evolve?
Be different than the rest. Don’t be a life-school dropout. Sign up, look closely, and evolve alongside this thing called life. It’s soul-satisfying if you ask me 😉
– Kate
p.s. If you’d like to dive a little deeper into this perspective shift, you can listen to episode #152 of the Here to Thrive podcast. Find it online here:
