Change Your Perspective in a Snap

You spent an hour in a comprehensive interview for the job or contract of your dreams. You thought you nailed every question. And your interview suit looked great, too. But two days have passed, and you haven't heard a word from the company. You figure there's only one conclusion - they don't want you.

Negative assumptions like this one drain our internal resources. Just reread the paragraph above and notice how your energy drops sharply at the end. That's just too much power to give to an assumption.

"But no," you say, "it's not an assumption. They obviously don't want me or they would have called."

Before you defend your viewpoint to the death, ask yourself this question instead: That's one perspective. What's another? Then come up with some new possibilities.

"Hmmm, perhaps their e-mail is down."

Yes, that's one interpretation. What's another possibility?

"Well, maybe my contact has been out of the office with allergies, or a sick child, or a surprise anniversary cruise to Mexico."

Could be. What's another explanation?

"If their office is anything like mine used to be, the hiring manager might have been called for an emergency budget meeting that lasted all day."

That's an interesting viewpoint. Anything else?

"Maybe they're deciding how much to offer me so I don't get hired away by the competition!"

And so on. Take this exercise out as far as you need to find yourself in a more balanced place.

It's easy for smart, competent people (like you!) to assume they know the reason for every outcome. The truth is that no one can really know all the factors at play. The next time you come up with a negative outcome to a situation, stop and ask yourself, That's one perspective. What's another? Then watch your spirits lift and new doors open for you.

About Merideth Mehlberg and Fresh Perspective Coaching

Merideth Mehlberg, founder of Fresh Perspective Coaching, helps her clients move toward new direction and meaning in their work, their small businesses, and their lives. She encourages her clients to dream big, and then provides the compassion, insight, structure and support they need to transform their vision into reality.

If your action plan isn't moving forward the way you'd like, or if you're struggling to see your situation in a new way,
contact Merideth at 510.864.0249 or mer@freshperspectivecoaching.com to schedule a complimentary consultation and sample coaching session.

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