It’s not all about you: the bigger picture

One thing I always try to keep in the back of my mind as I plod through this crazy life is seeing the bigger picture.


credit: Stephen Poff

You hear variations of this phrase thrown out there all the time, often in reference to people’s work habits: “He can look at things from a different perspective” “That’s someone who thinks outside the square” “She’s advanced quickly because she sees the bigger picture.”

What does this actually mean, and why should we bother having this approach at all?
Well, initially for me adopting this philosophy was born from a series of failures (like most of the lessons I have learned so far in life!). I’ve looked back on many different situations and experiences in my life and with the benefit of hindsight thought, “I was so narrow focused!” This realization has helped me not only in my career, but in my personal life also.

Most of my working career has been in health care. Being able to apply the ‘bigger picture’ approach in this line of work is absolutely invaluable in order to do the job well. For example, situations involving dealing with angry, abusive or violent patients and families can sometimes be de-escalated by understanding where they are coming from. It’s easier to say that on paper than it is to do in real life, let me tell you! The natural inclination is to get security guys to crash tackle and physically restrain these people, but the reality is they have often reached breaking point out of desperation. They may be stressed because a friend or loved one is badly hurt, they might have financial repercussions from being sick, or perhaps they’re behaviour is because they are scared to death on the inside.

How thinking outside the square can help you in life
Thinking outside the square is a great way to problem solve tasks. You might be stuck for ways to re-arrange an outdoor area to maximise space… Or maybe you’re trying to work out how to fit several appointments into a day… Juggling a budget… Planning a function… It’s widely known that by allowing yourself to incorporate lateral thinking in your approach, you can really boost productivity and results.


credit: zen

This approach to problem solving also works really well in other areas of life. Consciously deciding to see the bigger picture can benefit the way you respond to situations. It also helps the way other people respond to you, and the way you feel about yourself and others. For instance, when you are in a confrontational situation you might ask yourself, “what will it accomplish if I continue to argue with this person about how I am right?”. When you’re upset about the way someone handled a situation, ask yourself why they may have done that – what differences in their upbringing or personal life may be contributing to their actions?

Why not take the time to stop and think outside the square in different areas of your life this week? In taking a “Bigger Picture” approach, your levels of satisfaction can really get a boost.

For more great ideas, see Ben Carson’s amazing story, Think Big