How to Break Free from Limitations by Shifting Your Perspective

Focus is one of humanity's most powerful tools. It allows us to concentrate mental and physical energy on solving problems, as seen in Thomas Edison’s relentless pursuit of the incandescent light bulb, where he famously failed 1,000 times before succeeding. However, focus can also have a downside: it narrows our perspective. Focusing solely on problems can blind us to opportunities right in front of us. Focusing on what we are not prevents us from realizing who we could become. Focusing on what we cannot do often stops us from doing what we can.

Every disadvantage carries a hidden advantage when seen through the lens of the right perspective. In the biblical story of David and Goliath, the Israelite army was paralyzed by Goliath’s size and strength, focusing only on his might. But David, seeing the giant’s slowness and lack of agility, used these weaknesses to his advantage, defeating him with a single stone. As another example, many immigrants often encounter various challenges due to limited resources and support. Yet, these challenges often foster resilience, drive, and determination, leading to success and, in many cases, making immigrant families more prosperous than native-born ones over generations. Indeed, disadvantages often become our greatest strength when channeled correctly.

To overcome perceived limitations, consider altering your perspectives by zooming out and taking a broader view of the issue at hand. Defocusing or zooming out means questioning assumptions, redefining the problem, or changing the approach. This shift in perspective can help unlock new solutions. A great example of zooming out is the creation of Post-it Notes. In the 1970s, 3M scientist Spencer Silver accidentally developed a weak adhesive (i.e. glue) that didn’t meet the usual requirements for strong bonding. At first, Silver thought he had failed. But instead of discarding the discovery, he questioned the assumption that adhesives must be strong to be useful. What if a weaker adhesive (glue) could have its own value? This question led to the creation of the Post-it Note, a product that revolutionized office supplies by allowing users to stick and restick notes without leaving residue.

The story of the Post-it Note shows that defocusing and challenging our assumptions can enable us overcome limitations. Similar to focus, defocusing or zooming out will require time, intention, and patience, but as Amos Tversky said, “You can waste years if you cannot waste hours.” Focus has its place, but sometimes the key to success lies in stepping back and seeing the bigger picture.