What you see in others reflects your inner landscape. See generously.
Imagine you’re looking through a window. If the glass is smudged, the view outside appears hazy and distorted. But when the glass is clean, the world beyond is clear and vibrant. The same principle applies to how we see others and how they reflect back to us.
The way you perceive people around you isn’t just about them—it’s a direct reflection of your own inner state. If you find yourself quick to judge others, it might be because you’re wrestling with your own insecurities or frustrations. On the other hand, if you see kindness and beauty in others, it’s likely that your own heart is open and generous.
Think of it like this: imagine your mind is a mirror. When you look at someone and see negativity, it’s as though your mirror is fogged up. The fog represents unresolved issues or negative emotions inside you that cloud your perception. When you clear the fog by addressing these issues, you’ll find that your view of others changes too. You'll start seeing their true colors rather than your own reflections of doubts or fears.
This concept can be illustrated with a simple analogy: think of a garden. If you’re a gardener who loves and nurtures their plants, you’ll naturally see beauty in the garden, no matter how wild or untamed it might be. But if you neglect the garden, only the weeds and dead branches become noticeable, and the lushness of the flowers and greenery might go unseen. The condition of your garden reflects the care you put into it, just like your inner world reflects how you see others.
When you look at someone and notice something you don’t like, consider that this might be something you’re struggling with in yourself. Maybe it’s a trait you’re trying to suppress or a flaw you’re afraid to confront. By acknowledging and working through these aspects, you clean the “mirror” and find it easier to appreciate and empathize with others.
This idea extends to how we handle conflicts and relationships. If you’re feeling defensive and quick to anger, this might be a sign that you’re dealing with unresolved emotions or self-doubt. By addressing these internal issues, you’ll find that you become more understanding and patient with those around you.
The opposite is true as well. When you see someone who is consistently warm and understanding, it’s a reflection of your own positive mindset. When you’re content and secure, you’re more likely to see and appreciate the good in others.
This doesn’t mean you should ignore the real flaws or issues you see in people. It’s more about recognizing that your perspective is colored by your internal state. If you can cultivate a sense of generosity and kindness within yourself, you’ll find that these qualities become more apparent in others.
Understanding this concept can be transformative. It shifts the focus from blaming others for how you feel to examining how your inner state influences your interactions with the world. It’s about taking responsibility for your own perceptions and working to improve them.
So, how do you apply this understanding in your daily life? Start by paying attention to your reactions to others. If you catch yourself judging or criticizing, ask yourself what might be triggering these feelings. Are there unresolved issues or insecurities at play? By reflecting on these questions, you can begin to address the root causes of your judgments and work towards a more open and generous outlook.
In summary, how you see others is a reflection of your own inner world. By improving your inner landscape, you can change how you perceive and interact with those around you. Clean the “mirror” of your mind to see the world and others with greater clarity and kindness.
Now, ask yourself: What are some ways I can improve my own inner landscape to see others more generously and positively?
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
