The Power of Perspective

Often our perspective can dictate how good or bad things might go. Having a negative outlook or perspective can hinder us from making good choices, keep us too heavily focused on the bad, and potentially create more anxiety and stress when trying to get out of a slump on the field, etc. Perspective can even help us find relief in stressful situations. For example, Joe Musgrove of the San Diego Padres talked about how vital game 3 of the NLCS was but stated that his approach to the game would stay the same. That he’d focus his perspective on the fact that once that first pitch of the game was thrown, he’d automatically be in a calm spot.

Shifting our perspective not only changes how we think but can also give us choices. It can help us see our goals more clearly, give us more compassion, help us understand, and find the positive in what often might feel like a negative rut. Changing perspectives takes practice and work. It doesn’t always change overnight. It takes being constantly aware of your thoughts and actions and how they might impact yourself and those around you. So what are some ways we can focus on shifting and utilizing the power of our perspective? 

1. Reframe your thoughts: Positive self-talk can often help reframe your thoughts. Reframing your thoughts to be more optimistic can truly help shift your perspective. 
2. Don’t compare yourself to others: Know that when you’re training for competition, you are preparing to be your best version. Don’t compare yourself to those around you. Not to live up to others’ expectations. Focus on your character and who you want to be.
3. Focus on the positive: We let the thoughts in our heads go straight to the negative a lot. There is always a silver lining in bad situations. It might not make it fully better, but take the time to focus on how you can turn a negative situation into a positive one. 
4. Be open to change: Change can be challenging. Routines are great to help you build a foundation but don’t be afraid of trying new things that can ultimately help make you a better competitor. Find ways to view change not as a barrier but as an adventure. 
5. Live in the present: We often focus on the past and present and forget to live in the present. Focus on where your feet are and accomplish the tasks that are in front of you at the moment. 
6. Don’t be afraid of failure: Failure is scary, but don’t be scared of it. Know that failure can and will happen. Take those moments of failure as learning opportunities. Grow from them and become a better version of yourself.
7. Practice gratitude: We talk about gratitude all the time at MLU. Practicing gratitude can help you focus on what means the most to you. It can help shift your perspective into a positive place. 
8. Give back: Giving back can almost always fill you with happiness and joy. It can not only help others who are in need but help shift your perspective into a place that enables you to realize the greater meaning in life.
9. Surround yourself with positivity: Frequently, those we have around us can impact our outlook on the world. Find people to surround yourself with that will lift you and support you.
10. Take time for self-care: Remember to take care of YOU! You can only fill up others’ cups if you fill up yours first. Treat yourself with kindness and compassion. By doing so, you can make sure your perspective stays in a positive place for not just yourself but others as well.