Can You Mirror Another's Perspective?
Communication does not simply mean talking to someone else. In fact, we can talk and talk but unless the other person understands us and we understand them, communication has not occurred and communication is the cornerstone of social connections. In order to truly understand where another person is coming from, it is important to adopt their mindset or point of view-if only for a moment or two.
Have you ever tried to have a conversation with someone who used words you didn't understand and who seemed to be seeing something from a completely foreign point of view? Chances are you walked away feeling like you had wasted your time and that there was no connection between the two of you. When you are trying to connect with someone, consider sitting (or standing) at the same level, using similar vocabulary and voice level and trying to "mirror" the perspective that person is using.
For example: "I can so relate to what you are saying about standing in line! Having to wait in a very long line, especially when you have somewhere else to be and it has been a very long and tiresome day can be aggravating." You are letting the person know that you not only hear what she is saying, but you can also relate and see things from a similar point of view. You can also use your body language to let another person know that you are relating by mirroring his or her motions. This is not suggesting mimicry, but more and receptive and open approach. If someone sits and faces you, turn and face him or her in return. If someone is using a particular volume when they speak, matching that volume is another way of showing solidarity.
Mirroring another's perspective is a good way of making sure that social connection and communication take place.
Published by Kori Rodley Irons
Kori is a freelance writer, public relations and nonprofit management specialist living in the Pacific Northwest. She also raised three children as a single parent and is an activist involved in various comm... View profile
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