"ما قربانیان دنیایی که می‌بینیم نیستیم، ما قربانیان نحوه‌ای که دنیا را می‌بینیم هستیم"

Our perspective shapes our reality. It's not the events themselves that define our experience, but our interpretation of them. This idea suggests that our internal mindset and perceptions are more powerful in determining how we feel and react than the external world itself.

Take, for example, the historical context of World War II. Viktor Frankl, a psychiatrist and Holocaust survivor, wrote about his experiences in the concentration camps. He observed that those who found meaning and maintained a hopeful outlook were more likely to survive. It wasn't the horrific conditions alone that determined their fate, but their inner response to these conditions.

Imagine this in a real-life scenario: You're stuck in a traffic jam, late for an important meeting. You can choose to see this as a disaster, getting increasingly frustrated and angry. This perspective will only make the situation worse, amplifying your stress and possibly affecting your performance in the meeting once you finally arrive. Alternatively, you could see it as an opportunity—maybe to catch up on a podcast, reflect on your presentation, or simply practice patience. This shift in perspective doesn't change the traffic but changes your experience of it.

Now, how do you apply this wisdom in your life? Start by recognizing that your initial reaction to any situation is not the only one. Pause and ask yourself if there's another way to look at it. This takes practice and self-awareness. You might begin with small challenges—like a rude comment from a colleague. Instead of immediately feeling insulted, consider if they might be having a bad day or if there's a misunderstanding.

Think about a relatable story. Picture Jane, who just missed a promotion at work. She could easily see herself as a victim, focusing on the unfairness and feeling demoralized. But Jane decides to see it differently. She views it as a chance to learn and grow. She schedules a meeting with her boss to get feedback and understand what she can improve. This shift in perspective doesn't just make her feel better; it propels her forward. She works on the feedback, gains new skills, and eventually, a better opportunity comes along that aligns more with her strengths.

In essence, our interpretation of events can either limit us or liberate us. By consciously choosing a perspective that empowers rather than diminishes, we take control of our own narrative. It’s like having a superpower—one that doesn't change the world around us but changes the world within us. And that's often the most significant change of all.