Perception is complicated. What we see when looking at the same thing—whether it’s art, a complex problem, a crime scene, or two people having a conversation—can widely differ between us. It should not be viewed as a setback or frustration when we all don’t see things alike. In fact, when we see things differently, it can be a tremendous asset in resolving challenges.  

“What you see is not what others see. We inhabit parallel worlds of perception, bounded by our interests and experience. What is obvious to some is invisible to others.”—George Monbiot 

The Art of Perception® in New York City is an organization that educates professionals and other leaders on how to enhance their observations of visual information and then effectively communicate those observations to the outside world.  

Its founder, Amy Herman, created the four As as a simple way to help others navigate through their unique perceptions of the world around them, and then clearly convey what they have seen to others. When viewing a situation or problem, try implementing the four As to gain a clearer understanding of your own perceptions as well as the perceptions of others:  

ASSESS:                      Stop and look. What do you really see? Take your time. 

ANALYZE:                   What is important and not important about what you see? 

ARTICULATE:              How do you want to communicate what you have seen to others? 

ADAPT OR ACT:         What do you want to do? Change your behavior to adapt to the situation or change the situation and make a difference? 

By assessing, analyzing, articulating, and adapting or acting on our perceptions, we are better able to find common ground with others around us, a path forward, and a greater appreciation of how our minds work differently to produce great ideas and solutions. 

Invite in the quiet and then open your mind to viewing and sharing your perceptions in a new way. It is through this practice that we not only learn more about ourselves, but also how to understand and respect the perceptions of those around us. 

 “There are things known and there are things unknown, and in between are the doors of perception.” ―Aldous Huxley 

Vicky DeCoster is a Certified Life Coach based in Omaha, Nebraska, who specializes in helping her clients both locally and nationwide to move past obstacles, create a plan for happiness, and cross the bridge of transition to find a new and fulfilling direction in life. To read more about her and her practice, visit her at crossthebridgecoaching.com.