by Sarah Mullins
“Eye of the beholder”- a seemingly old time
phrase from days past. No one can deny it has a romantic ring to it. I myself
see all the beloved characters of a Jane Austen novel sitting in their
beautiful attire, drinking their wine and eloquently using this kind of
language like it’s common place. The thing is, however, that this phrase holds
power. It holds deep meaning and when understood correctly, can help you, me,
and everyone else around you change… almost everything.
“Eye of the beholder”- a seemingly old time
phrase from days past. No one can deny it has a romantic ring to it. I myself
see all the beloved characters of a Jane Austen novel sitting in their
beautiful attire, drinking their wine and eloquently using this kind of
language like it’s common place. The thing is, however, that this phrase holds
power. It holds deep meaning and when understood correctly, can help you, me,
and everyone else around you change… almost everything.
It all comes back to perspective. Breaking it
down, the “eye” is a metaphor for one’s personal observance of a situation, and
the “beholder” (you, me, or whomever we’re speaking of) gets to then make their
own assumptions, creating their own perspective on the situation. If you’ve
ever been grossly misunderstood, you see how powerful this perspective can be.
Barring other’s perspectives, you can use this
knowledge to transform your world. It sounds a bit dramatic, but trust me -
it’s true. Personally, I like to see the changing of the seasons as a fresh
start. You get 4 times a year to begin
again - 4 times to put the best foot (or eye) forward. Truly believing that
entering into this time of year is a privilege, I set the tone for what’s to
come.
When you see obstacles as opportunities, group
work as potential for larger projects, and responsibilities as privileges, you
will always have a step up. Don’t believe me? Try it out!
Since we’re all in BNI, I’ll use your chapter
as a constant variable. Each of you, whether you’re on leadership team or not,
have a role to play. The easiest common
denominator is visitors. Start this next
week with the extreme joy that YOU get to bring in whoever you want to the
chapter! Pump yourself up! Think of the best possible scenario and go for it!
You’ll naturally be flooded with excitement when you ask this amazing potential
visitor! You’ll perfectly share everything you love about your chapter ahead of
time, and while your visitor is there visiting, you’ll more than likely give
them a beautiful introduction, making them feel welcome!
Take this enjoyment of a situation and move it
into all aspects of your life. When you
start with your best “eye” forward, I promise you - those situations, tasks,
and obstacles that you have always
dreaded, will somehow work out for the best.
This perspective shift can be done over a
lifetime, not just changing your reaction to situations, but changing your
language (chore versus privilege, have to vs get to) and encouraging those
around you to do the same. This is a
life-long adventure. I for one, believe
it’s worth it! As the saying goes, have a good day- or not. The choice is
yours.
Happy Networking :)