(1 minute read)
When author Daniel H. Pink shared a recent Pinkcast (short video clip) on overcoming obstacles, he shared a strategy known as the Stoic Challenge (based upon the writings of William B. Irvine).
Put simply, our Perception is how we see and understand what occurs around us – and what we decide these events will mean, and how they may affect us.
Therefore, our perceptions can prove to be a source of strength or weakness. If we are more reactive, emotional, subjective, or short-sighted, we tend to increase the scale of the event to a point where it can overwhelm or negatively impact us.
To adopt a more objective view or perception, permits us to separate reliable and meaningful signals from deceptive ones – allowing us to filter out prejudice, expectation, and fear.
As Marcus Aurelius (Roman Emperor and Stoic) sagely stated; “Our perspective can empower us to remain calm and unperturbed, where others may appear afraid or frustrated. We will see things simply and straightforwardly, as they truly are – neither good nor bad.”
Our choice of perspective, and our attention to the wisdom of the Stoics, can prove an incredible advantage in the ongoing battle against obstacles – however and whenever they present.