Why Perspective Matters
George Maverick
Have you ever been so sure you were right that you were willing to sacrifice almost anything to prove it? Who hasn’t? But here’s the catch—how often did it turn out you were wrong? In my 20s, I was wrong plenty of times. Today, before making any significant decision, I make a point to consult those who are likely to have a different perspective.
In many cultures, seeking outside opinions on personal decisions can be perceived as a weakness. Society often tells us that authority figures should be decisive, knowledgeable, and unwavering. For me, however, while I strive to have the best intentions for my family, my team, our company, our clients, and partners, I know I can’t possibly know everything. Even small shifts in perspective can make an enormous difference in perception—and in business outcomes.
Take payment options, for example. We have zero clients who are late with payments. This wasn’t due to some magic policy, but because we implemented a suggestion from a friend who offered a fresh perspective: give clients three payment options. It was something we hadn’t considered before, and it changed everything. Sometimes, it’s the small changes inspired by outside views that can make the biggest impact.
The 6 and the 9: How Perspectives Shape Reality
We’ve all experienced everyday interactions with people who see things differently, leading us to wonder: What is wrong with them? But here’s the thing—many of those people are likely wondering the same about us. Imagine two people standing on opposite sides of a number. One sees a 6; the other sees a 9. Both are correct from their vantage points, but without seeing the other’s perspective, neither can fully understand the whole picture.
This analogy extends to the business world. In every partnership and negotiation, perspective matters. One party may see stairs leading up, while the other sees them going down. One sees a river to cross; another sees a mountain to climb. The challenge—and the opportunity—is to understand that both perspectives can coexist and even complement each other.
Tailoring services Through Client Feedback
Years ago, a client told us they wanted more flexibility in our offerings. Initially, I hesitated, fearing it would dilute our commitment to quality. But after more discussions, we found a way to adapt our services without sacrificing our values. The result? A tailored program that suited their needs and reinforced our brand as a responsive, client-centered partner. Their perspective opened up a new avenue for us, and today, that flexibility is a cornerstone of our service design.
The Power of Listening to Perspectives Beyond Our Own
Over the years, I struggled with designing services based on what I thought was ideal. I quickly learned that creating what I thought would be perfect didn’t necessarily align with what clients needed or valued. Early on, I was reluctant to compromise on quality or passion, believing that only my standards could achieve our mission of providing clients with top-tier development programs.
But as we grew, I learned to listen to client feedback more deeply. Today, it’s the unique perspectives of our clients that drive our service design. Their insights motivate my team and me to develop solutions that are not only effective but also resonate personally with them. This mutual respect has fostered partnerships with clients that have lasted since our founding.
Perspective as a Tool for Growth
In every interaction, we encounter perspectives that can challenge, frustrate, or enlighten us. Learning when to see a “6” as a “9” doesn’t mean abandoning our own viewpoint. Instead, it’s about understanding where others are coming from, considering angles we might miss, and using these insights to make stronger, more informed decisions.
So, imagine two people looking at a prism. If they refuse to exchange perspectives, conflict is inevitable. But if they respect each other’s view, that same prism becomes a tool for discovery. The ability to see beyond our immediate viewpoint—and the willingness to acknowledge another’s perspective—can transform our approach to both leadership and life.
Reflections on the Power of Perspective
Reflections on the Power of Perspective
True growth comes when we don’t let our viewpoint limit us. Embrace diverse perspectives, engage in conversations that stretch your thinking, and stay open to insights from unlikely places. When you encourage your team to look beyond their own perspectives, you’re building an organization that’s resilient, innovative, and deeply connected.
Ultimately, perspective isn’t just about seeing things differently; it’s about seeing them more fully.
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