EXECUTIVE COACHING

Why I am blessed looking at the big picture. (By Anonymous Client) Thank You….

When I look at the big picture, I see beyond myself – my physical body, my emotions, my worries. I detach myself from the situation I am in, and gain perspective that only comes through experience or distance. From this perspective, I see balance, find calm and can decide courses of action which I would not see if I was looking at the small picture.

In essence, it’s the difference between being in the story, and writing the story, working in the business and working on the business.

So how do I look at the big picture?

The first thing I do is stop. Sometimes I physically step back. Sometimes I look down to break the line of whatever is going on. In all cases, I simply ask ‘ what is the big picture here’ and wait. An answer always comes, mostly in the form of a fuzzy picture which becomes sharper the longer I wait. Then I verbalise it, usually starting with ‘so what is the big picture here…’ Sometimes I write it down to gain clarity. In most cases I also see a picture, which is the real benefit because, unlike words which are like wind, pictures stay with me, like a picture. Which is why it is called the big picture.

So what are the benefits of looking at the big picture?

Spiritually, looking at the big picture connects me to something bigger than myself. It humbles me, and helps me see the beauty in whatever is going on at the time. In some cases it stops me saying something I shouldn’t, or doing something I will regret. In a way, it is one way I find peace in myself, away from the incessant chatter that goes on in my head.

Mentally, looking at the big picture calms me down. It centres me. It helps me see the balance in things, which takes the emotion out of the moment. Which allows me to think clearly, and communicate with greater power and perspective. Looking at the big picture quietens and relaxes my mind, and helps me operate in a more effective manner.

Socially, looking at the big picture helps me see the world for what it really is, and connect to the pain and pleasure of humanity, the beauty of nature, and our place in the cosmos. There is humility in that picture – which grounds, centres and creates a platform from which to empathise with all that is going beyond myself.

Relationship wise, looking at the big picture helps me connect to the love I feel for my family, my friends, and all the people I know in the wold. Love is the bond that all relationships sit on, and looking at the big picture reminds me of the love in the world and the love I have in my life.

Career wise, looking at the big picture helps me see the wood from the trees – It elevates my thinking, energises my action, helps my decision making and engage with everyone in the room rather than just myself. In many cases it stops me saying something I shouldn’t, and helps me say things I should.

Financially, looking at the big picture helps me make choices, and not worry so much. In life sometimes the tide comes in and at other times the tide goes out. Looking at the big picture helps me see the full tidal cycle, and worry less about the day by day movements. It doesn’t stop me watching and taking calculated risks, but it does give me perspective as to my worth, which is well beyond what is in my bank account.

Health wise, looking at the big picture stops me worrying. We will all die one day, and coming to terms with that is insight that lets me live full today. It helps me embrace where I am, and be grateful for the knocks and bumps that happen as one gets older, and the gift I have of living, surfing, running, thinking and jumping.

In summary, looking at the big picture connects me to my purpose, which is bigger than me.