Have you thought about that from another perspective?
The ability to see things from a different perspective can be a game-changer. It allows us to bring understanding and empathy to the way we respond to things and how we navigate complex situations. In this blog, we'll explore how you can effectively employ the Four Quadrants, introduced to us by Ken Wilber, to tackle challenges in both your work and personal life.
The "I" Perspective: Subjective
Start by taking a moment to consider how you personally feel about the situation. What are your thoughts, emotions, and concerns? This is like looking at a situation through your own lens - what it means to you and how it affects you.
The "We" Perspective: Intersubjective
Next, shift your focus to the collective viewpoint. Consider how others involved in the situation might see it. This could include colleagues, family, or anyone else affected by the issue. What are their thoughts, feelings, and concerns?
The "It" Perspective: Objective
Now, take a step back and look at the situation from an objective standpoint. Imagine you're a fly on the wall, removed from any personal attachment. What patterns or dynamics do you notice? What stands out when you're not emotionally invested?
The "Its" Perspective: Interobjective
This perspective encourages you to think systemically and consider the broader consequences of networks, technology, government and the natural environment.
Example: A dispute someone is having with their colleague
I Perspective: How do you personally feel about the dispute? What does this argument mean to you? How does it affect you?
We Perspective: Consider the viewpoints of those around you. What might your colleague be experiencing in this situation? What might be going on for them? How does it affect them?
It Perspective: Step back and objectively assess the situation. What would a fly on the wall observe that perhaps has not been considered by the I or the We? Can they see where each other are coming from? Do they understand each other’s point of view? What is the collective desired outcome?
Its Perspective: What else might be contributing to the dispute from a systemic point of view? Are they only speaking over text and the tone has been lost? Are they in different time zones where one of them is working at 2am?
If you can apply this when you are experiencing a challenge, it can help you to appreciate what else is going on in the situation which might be affecting your perception of it. Once you have gone through the four quadrants, it is also useful to go back to the “I” perspective and ask yourself, “What am I aware of now that I didn’t previously realise?”.
By recognising these four perspective quadrants and trying to access them when you are experiencing a challenge, you open the door to a world of fresh insights. This approach encourages adaptability, empathy, and strategic thinking - all crucial elements in personal and professional development.
If this resonates with you, get in touch with me to have a chat about how coaching could help you and your business.
Image source: Integral Life