Adopting multiple perspectives provides richer information and deeper understanding. The ability to shift among different viewpoints is a critical skill in leadership, as well as in parenting, teaching, coaching, and counseling.
Often, people become fixed in a single way of interpreting a situation—stuck in their own mental “maps.” Some see things only from their personal viewpoint, while others habitually take the other person’s perspective or observe from a distance. There isn’t one “correct” way to interpret any event. Developing the capacity to see multiple angles is vital for gaining insight and clarity.
Illustrative Example
A well-known example comes from a humorous video featuring Alec Baldwin, where he unintentionally demonstrates this NLP approach (though not in the exact sequence usually taught). Initially, Tracey sees things only from his own viewpoint, while Jack (played by Alec Baldwin) adopts the roles of his father, mother, and stepfather. Later, Jack takes on Tracey’s role, allowing him to grasp the full dynamic of the relationship.
How the Technique Works
This approach is especially helpful for exploring relationship or communication difficulties. The core idea is to physically and distinctly move into each perspective. While having others play the roles can help, you can simply imagine stepping into each viewpoint yourself.
By physically changing position, you anchor each perspective kinesthetically. The essential point is to fully enter—and then fully leave—each stance without mixing them, as overlapping viewpoints can cause confusion.
The Three Key Perspectives
- First Position: Your Own Point of View
Stand in your own space, adopting your natural posture and breathing. Be fully associated—meaning fully engaged with your own feelings, beliefs, thoughts, and perceptions about the situation. In this position, you experience your personal map of the world directly, without stepping outside yourself. - Second Position: The Other Person’s Point of View
Imagine stepping into the other person’s shoes. Take on their posture, breathing, and mindset. Consider their beliefs, feelings, assumptions, and perspective on the situation. Try to sense what they might be experiencing and how they perceive you and your communication. - Third Position: The Neutral Observer
From this detached stance, you observe the interaction without being identified with either party. Here, you integrate the information gathered from both the first and second positions, gaining a broader understanding of the dynamics involved.
Optional Fourth Position: The System View
Robert Dilts suggests adding a fourth perspective—viewing the entire system as a whole. This synthesizes insights from the previous positions and is especially useful for complex situations. While third position often includes this systemic awareness, separating it out can deepen understanding.
Expanding Perspectives Further
You can also adopt viewpoints of other roles or professions to break habitual thinking patterns. For example, how might an artist view the situation differently from an engineer? Edward de Bono’s “Six Thinking Hats” method encourages looking at problems from logical, emotional, creative, and other perspectives to enhance problem-solving.
