Rarely do we recognize the power of observation. It
is even rare that we realize we have an inherent ability to observe things.
Observing is the quality of the human mind to notice the series of activities,
events, things happening around us. This ability though remains limited to the
confines of the subconscious mind.
We never quite practice observation intentionally, yet our mind keeps registering changes that it observes and communicates these changes with us as and when the need arises. These observations help us sail through our daily routine. We understand and connect with people, build relations, identify things and objects, we notice change albeit subconsciously.
Just imagine the wonders it would do when we use the power of observation intentionally and effectively. What will happen when we start noticing details which we otherwise miss or ignore? Well for once we will start gathering minute details or information from anything which normal people might not notice or miss completely. We may utilize these pieces of information to skillfully deal with and tactfully handle any undesired state of situations or to recognize patterns or be able to see not only the missing pieces.
Moreover, our power to observe helps us become mindful and gives us a better shot at seeing how the dots connect and see the big picture. It presents us with an edge over others. History has been ripe with examples of people who observed intentionally, sooner or later solved the most challenging problems, made the most startling discoveries, developed insights to understand new phenomena, learned quickly from their mistakes, and changed the face of mankind.
So how do we develop our power of observation? How do we become mindful of something that comes naturally to us, but is least practiced and totally ignored? How do we observe to leverage the power of observation?
Well here are few ways that will help us become better at observing.
1. Be open to receiving information.
Just open your mind to the possibilities of
learning new things from anyone and anything. Gather as much information
as possible from your surroundings. Remember there is always something to
learn. However, remember to process and acquire whatever information and
knowledge they provide.
2. Be Intentional.
We never know what we might observe and learn. Yet,
by being open, we are preparing for the learning possibilities. But we must
also be intentional. We should know what our learning goals and questions are.
We should pursue observation with the intent of finding what we are looking for
and learning from it.
3. Keep Looking.
Seek and you shall find. So we should be attentive,
keeping our eyes wide open and noticing what others do, say, and how they
respond to us as well as others.
4. Use all senses.
The more we use all senses, the better to notice
and analyze the surrounding environment. True observation is a multi-sensory
experience. The more we look from multiple perspectives and viewpoints using
multiple senses, the better we become.
5. Use your filters carefully.
There is tons of information that we get daily from
every activity we are involved in. However, which information is relevant and
can be utilized is sorted out by your brain filters. Thus if a filter is wrong
we may miss or misread the information we see. Our past experience, beliefs,
habits, and knowledge are some of the filters that may filter what we let sieve
through.
6. Improve ability to recall.
Use notes, logs, drawings, puzzles, cryptograms,
and memory-enhancing techniques to improve the ability to recall.
Using logical reasoning, lateral thinking, and critical thinking also help. The ability to question, reason, and analyze our observations can define the outcome of our work.
Last but not least is the ability to be still and meditate which helps enhance the power of observations.
Observations lead to opportunities and questions of all sorts that can be life-changing. But it starts with a clear picture of how to be more observant more often and leverage the power of observation.
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