Look at the two photos below. What do you see?
No, I am not talking about the concept of depth of field in photography. I am trying to illustrate the concept of perceptions. Both photos are taken seconds apart from the exact spot, yet the focus is totally different. The first photo focuses on the hut (shelter) whereas the second photo focuses on the branches and leaves. Imagine Tom, Dick and Harry standing at the same spot and admiring the same view. Oh, did I say “same view”? Would Tom know what images are painted in the minds of Dick and Harry, vice versa?
Perceptions
A common meaning of “Perception”, according to dictionary.com, is “Intuitive recognition or appreciation, as of moral, psychological, or aesthetic qualities”. In other words, it is the output (understanding) of one’s analysis of a situation. The unique feature of human beings is that each individual perceives the “same situation” differently. I shouldn’t even be using the phrase “same situation” because different perceptions would mean different situations for different people. Rightfully, I should say, “The unique feature of human beings is that each individual perceives the event that they witnessed together differently.” And believe me, this is where all the trouble starts.
Misunderstandings
When people perceive an event or issue differently, the result is often one filled with misunderstandings. Let’s analyze how misunderstandings can occur.
The human brain can be loosely classified into three regions:
Neo Cortex – Controls the logic, thinking functions
Limbic System – Moderates the emotional self (feelings)
Brain Stem – Controls the human instincts (reactions)
Imagine the following happening within a split second. When presented with a situation, Tom’s Limbic System “sets” his mood (based on his emotions at that time), and then combines with the Neo Cortex to start him thinking logically to decipher the situation. When the billions of neurons click in his brain in that split second, he perceives the situation in a certain manner, and his Brain Stem orders his body to react accordingly. Can you imagine how the brains of Dick and Harry will function within that split second?
There are infinite ways which people can view a situation, and when they do not see eye-to-eye, misunderstandings may result, leading to unhealthy and more importantly, unnecessary argument.
Proper Communication
The way to go about resolving any differences in perception resulting in misunderstandings is proper communication. Whenever you sense that someone views an issue in a different light, approach the subject objectively. This is often the case at the workplace. It is not about you trying to convince the other party about your proposal or making him understand your point of view. As someone who knows that the root cause is differences in perception resulting in the misunderstanding, you can take on the role as facilitator and ensure that there is a two-way communication channel – Taking turns to speak your minds and thrashing things out.
Proper communication is easier said than done. Often, we need parties to be willing to sit down and approach the subject objectively. It’s a pity that “willingness” is a virtue that not everyone embraces, and taking time off to communicate and solve problems objectively is considered a waste of time for these people. Perhaps they are too self-centered, or are too shallow to even think about such issues.
In any case, be it between spouses, siblings, boyfriends and girlfriends, or friends, we should not take our loved ones for granted. Exercise proper and effective communication when necessary. It will do many people a lot of good, as well as enhance relationships.
Last Note
The next time you feel like “bursting” because your loved one does not understand your situation, take a step back and think through the concepts discussed in this post. I hope my thinking aloud will benefit you in some ways.
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that’s a great capture. how do you do that? it’s amazing. how i wish i can do something like that.
I agree with pinaymommy, brilliant! And the way you used it to explain a concept is really superb. One gets the idea immediately. Just like looking at a glass half-filled with water? Both interpretations are correct, it is just one’s perception that changes the meaning.
Thanks for sharing.
“Proper communication is easier said than done.”
indeed many are too shallow to even think about such issues.
for both to really want to sit down n exchange opinions,
i suppose both has to be interested in self-development.
in fact, both should understand the importance of such discussions “sessions”.
another thing my mentor taught me is: Perspective,
which i find rather similar or in sync with your post here.
therefore am sharing it with you.
Hi Mommy Ruby. You may find more information about this photography concept in http://www.cambridgeincolour.com/tutorials/depth-of-field. If going through the details is too much pain, and if you have a point-and-shoot digital camera, all you need to do is focus on the primary subject of interest and shoot (while keeping the secondary subject of interest at a short distance from the camera lens). You should be able to get this effect. Give it a try and let me know if it works for you. =)
Hi Jena, nice analogy on the topic of perceptions. Yes, it is the interpretation of event that results in difference in understanding of the situation. And that is why the subsequent effective communication is vital in developing healthy and sustainable relationships.
TKH,
This is a killer post! Well done. My Neo Cortex, Limbic System and Brain Stem are all in complete agreement.
On another note, could it be said that perception is three parts illusion and one part of what we actually see? ;D
Hi Levian, exactly. It is only when both view the subject objectively, and are keen to resolve issues that there is a chance that discussion sessions will bear fruit. Thanks for sharing your post on the topic of perspectives.
Hi Alexys. Many thanks for your compliment. Haha, that is a good one. Thanks for being so in-sync with my post. “Perception is three parts illusion and one part what we actually see.” An interesting way to look at it, and kind of explains why our brains create different images to fit a particular scenario huh? =)