"La façon dont nous voyons le problème est le problème."

Often, the biggest obstacle we face isn't the problem itself—it's our perspective on it. This means that sometimes the way we perceive a problem can create more issues than the problem itself. If we change our viewpoint, we might realize that what we thought was a massive hurdle could be tackled more easily or even wasn't a problem at all.

This idea comes from Stephen R. Covey, the author of "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People." He believed that our attitudes and perceptions can heavily influence our reality. Covey's approach to personal and professional effectiveness revolves around shifting our mindset to see situations from different angles, which can lead to more constructive solutions and better outcomes.

Let's dive into a real-life example. Think about Thomas Edison. When working on the light bulb, he failed over a thousand times. If he had seen each failure as a definitive end, he might have quit. But instead, he viewed each failure as a step closer to the solution. His perspective was that he hadn't failed but had found a thousand ways that didn't work—each step brought him closer to success. This shift in perspective eventually led to the invention of the electric light bulb, something that revolutionized the world.

So, how do you apply this wisdom day-to-day? Start by questioning your initial reactions. When you face a problem, pause and consider if there's another way to look at it. Ask yourself if your perspective is limiting or expanding your ability to find a solution. For instance, if you're feeling overwhelmed by a big project at work, instead of seeing it as an insurmountable task, break it down into smaller, manageable parts. This change in perspective can transform the problem from a mountain into a series of small hills.

Imagine you're at a coffee shop with a friend. Your friend is stressed out because they didn't get the promotion they were hoping for. They're seeing the situation as a dead-end, a sign that their career is stuck. You listen, sip your coffee, and then ask, "But what if this is just a redirection? What if this means there's a better opportunity out there for you?" By helping them shift their perspective, you're showing them that the problem might not be as bad as it seems.

Seeing the problem differently can change everything. Next time you're stuck, try to step back and look at it from a new angle. It's like adjusting the lens on a camera. Sometimes, just a tiny shift can bring things into focus and reveal solutions you never noticed before. And remember, we're all in this together—everyone deals with challenges, and sometimes all it takes is a fresh perspective to turn things around.