perspective

Being able to look at a situation from multiple points of view and seeing the "big picture".

In part: Choosing the right things to apply your intellectual effort to. In part: being able to focus on different levels of detail and on the big picture and being able to transition through those views gracefully and at appropriate times.

Perspective also is a coping strategy for dealing with stress. Look at the big picture. Consider your troubles in comparison to those of others. Think of how this will look a year, 10 years from now. “This too shall pass.”

Complementary virtues

Contrasting vices

TBD

Virtues possibly in tension

How to acquire or strengthen it

  • Imagine yourself discussing whatever the issue is with people of a diverse variety of cultures, or with particular wise people. (P.B. Baltes & U. Staudinger “Wisdom: A metaheuristic (pragmatic) to orchestrate mind and virtue toward excellence” American Psychologist 2000)

Notes and links

TBD

Mentioned elsewhere

Inspirational quotes

  • “It is essential for you to remember that the attention you give to any action should be in due proportion to its worth, for then you won’t tire and give up, if you aren’t busying yourself with lesser things beyond what should be allowed.” —Marcus Aurelius, Meditations 4.32