Zoom Out to Zoom In

Sometimes, we need to zoom out and see the bigger picture. This helps us gain perspective, so when we zoom in again, we can deal with things more effectively.

Everyone has their own way of looking at the world. We’re all unique in our perspectives, which makes us feel different, maybe even special. But with eight billion people on this planet, is one perspective really better or more correct than another? Who’s to say?

Let’s play a game.

Imagine yourself right now, as you read this. Picture yourself from the outside, as if you’re another person watching you. Maybe you’re on the metro, sitting on your sofa with your laptop, or at work having a coffee break.

Now, try to expand that picture. Step out of the room you’re in and see the building, then zoom out further until you can see your city, your country, and then the entire planet—a small blue and white rock floating in a vast, dark space. Can you see it?

Now, think about your perception. Can your personal view help you truly understand the world? Zooming out shifts your perspective and shows you how similar you are to the rest of the 7.999 billion people on this planet. We might not all see the world the same way, but there’s something we all have in common. What is it?

When you truly understand this, not just on a surface level, you realize that zooming out connects you to the world. It shows you that you are part of it. We may look different, speak different languages, and have different cultures, but we’re all human. We all share the same basic emotions—worry, love, sadness, joy, excitement, and disappointment—no matter where we are on this small, beautiful planet.

So, when you zoom out, you actually zoom in on what really matters: the connection we all share.

It might sound philosophical or romantic, but it’s a fact. I’m not asking you to adopt an ideology or overthink it—just look at it. This simple truth can change how you see yourself and the world.

Someone might ask, “How does this help me in my life? How can this improve my work, my relationships, or solve my problems?” But maybe that’s not the most important question.

Of course, questions like “how” and “why” have driven progress in the world, whether you’re a philosopher, scientist, religious, or atheist. But just understanding this one simple reality—that we are all connected—can be a powerful shift. It’s a realization that shows you exactly who you are.

Maybe this understanding can ease the tension, the need to be someone you’re not. Being yourself and honoring that is where everything falls into place.

Coaching is about seeing things from a new perspective. It’s like putting on new glasses that change how you see yourself and others. I’m not saying you should quit your job or become a philosopher, a scientist, or a monk. But by focusing on our similarities instead of our differences, we change how we behave toward ourselves and others.

Those new glasses, if you choose to wear them, will help you live with a sense of “we” instead of “I.” Just think about how much care and understanding that small shift can bring.

Thank you for reading this,

Dimitrios