Changing Perspectives

The article from Huff Post entitled “Assuming Positive Intent” by Neff (2012) has had a significant impact on me. Although it is a very short article, Neff’s impact is large. To me, this article illustrated something that I experience that I infrequently hear discussed. There are far too many underlying assumptions around people’s ability to simply exist. It is very troubling to have people make assumptions on your ability to do “normal” things, such as walk up a flight of stairs, based on your physical appearance. I think it is critical to assume good intentions and when we find ourselves making assumptions about other people, to remind ourselves that we can only see a part of their story, not the whole thing. 

I found the Mood Elevator to be very interesting. I think it can provide valuable information about where we are in our perspectives and what our thoughts are telling us. For example, when I took it, I was in a fairly good mood and got “Grateful — Adaptive” as my result, which meant that I was on one of the top floors of the Mood Elevator. I took it again while I was feeling a little down and got “Curious and Interested.” I think that this tool can provide us insights into how we see the world, and may point us in the direction we need to change.

Have you taken the Mood Elevator quiz? Share your results below!

 

References:

Neff, L. (2012). Assuming positive intent. Huff Post. Retrieved from https://www.huffpost.com/entry/assuming-positive-intent_b_1368267

 

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