Elevate Your Mind: Adopting an Expansive Perspective for Creative Breakthroughs
Creativity is often thought of as the ability to see beyond the obvious, to connect seemingly unrelated ideas, and to imagine new possibilities. But what if the secret to unlocking deeper creativity lies not in narrowing our focus but in expanding it? The Stoics, ancient philosophers known for their wisdom and insight, practised a powerful exercise called the “view from above.” This mental practice involved stepping back and visualising oneself from a distant perspective, considering one’s place within the world's vastness and recognising the interconnectedness of all life. By adopting an expansive perspective, we can gain clarity, overcome creative blocks, and find innovative solutions to problems that once seemed insurmountable. For example, a writer struggling with a storyline might step back and consider how their story fits into a larger theme or draw on their personal experiences. This broader perspective can provide new insights and help them move forward creatively.
Expanding our perspective allows us to consider our work within a larger framework, to connect the dots between disparate thoughts, and to recognise how our unique contributions fit into the greater whole. The Stoics understood that our problems often seem overwhelming because we are too close to them; stepping back can reveal a different context, where our worries lose intensity and solutions emerge more clearly. This approach to creativity is not about ignoring challenges but reframing them in a way that opens us up to new possibilities. By adopting the expansive view, we shift our mindset from problem-centric to opportunity-centric, allowing creativity to flourish in ways that might not have been accessible with a narrower focus.
The Stoic Exercise: The View from Above
The view from above is a mental exercise that invites us to step outside of our immediate experience and look at the bigger picture. Marcus Aurelius, the Roman Emperor and Stoic philosopher, frequently practised this perspective in his writings. In ‘Meditations,’ he often reflected on the vastness of the universe and the fleeting nature of human life, reminding himself that his worries were insignificant in the grand scheme of things. For example, he wrote, “Look at the river of stars, as though you were flowing with them, and reflect on the endlessness of time and the vastness of space.” This helped him maintain perspective and focus on what truly mattered. He imagined himself as a small part of a much larger whole, seeing the vastness of the universe and his own life as a fleeting moment. This practice was not meant to diminish the importance of one’s actions but rather to foster a sense of perspective — to remind oneself that we are part of something greater and that our problems, no matter how significant they seem, are often much smaller in the grand scheme of things.
For creatives, the “View from Above” exercise can be a powerful tool for shifting perspective. When too close to a problem, seeing beyond the immediate obstacles can be difficult. We may become fixated on a specific detail, lose sight of the broader context, or think only one solution exists. By stepping back and adopting the view from above, we can gain a fresh perspective that allows us to see new connections, recognise patterns, and approach problems with a sense of curiosity rather than frustration. For example, looking at a project from a broader vantage point, we might realise that what seemed like an insurmountable issue is just a small part of a larger process. This shift in perspective helps us reframe our challenges, making them more manageable and opening up new avenues for creative problem-solving.
Adopting an expansive perspective also allows us to draw inspiration from unexpected places. When we step back, we can see connections between fields and disciplines that we might not have noticed otherwise. This cross-pollination of ideas can be incredibly powerful for creativity. For instance, an architect might find inspiration in nature, observing how a tree’s structure can inform a building’s design. By seeing the interconnectedness of different elements, we open ourselves up to a wealth of creative possibilities that we might have overlooked if we were too focused on the specifics of our immediate task.
One of the biggest challenges in creative work is the dreaded creative block — that feeling of being stuck, unable to come up with new ideas or make progress. Creative blocks often arise when we become too narrowly focused on a particular problem or when we get caught up in the minutiae of a project. This kind of tunnel vision can make it difficult to see the bigger picture and limit our ability to think creatively.
The Stoic practice of the view from above offers a powerful antidote to creative blocks, as it helps reduce emotional attachment to immediate obstacles and provides a sense of perspective that fosters clearer, more expansive thinking. By imagining ourselves rising above the problem, we can see it in the context of the larger whole. This perspective helps us realise that the obstacles we face are often not as daunting as they seem when viewed up close. It also allows us to see connections we might have missed between ideas, experiences, or influences that can spark new inspiration.
For example, imagine a designer struggling to develop a new concept for a project. They may feel frustrated and overwhelmed, unable to move forward. By practising the view from above, they can imagine themselves stepping back from the project, seeing it from a broader perspective. Perhaps they see how the project fits into the larger goals of their team or company or how it connects to other work they have done in the past. This broader view can help them see the project in a new light, sparking previously hidden ideas.
Adopting an expansive perspective also helps us break free from limiting assumptions. When we are too close to a problem, we may unconsciously impose constraints on ourselves — assumptions about what is possible, what is acceptable, or what will work. By stepping back and seeing the bigger picture, we can challenge these assumptions and open ourselves up to new possibilities. This expansive thinking is at the heart of creativity, allowing us to see beyond the obvious and imagine new solutions.
In addition, an expansive perspective can help us cultivate patience in the creative process. Often, creative blocks are exacerbated by the pressure to produce immediate results. By stepping back and seeing our work as part of a larger journey, we can alleviate some of this pressure and give ourselves the time and space needed for ideas to develop. Creativity is not always a linear process, and adopting a broader view can help us embrace the ebb and flow of inspiration, recognising that setbacks are simply part of the journey.
Moreover, adopting the view from above helps us reframe failure itself. Rather than seeing a setback as a definitive end or a reflection of our abilities, an expansive perspective allows us to see it as a learning opportunity, an essential part of a much larger creative journey. Every successful creator has experienced failure, and often, they can step back, see the bigger picture, and learn from their mistakes that have ultimately propelled them to success. This understanding helps us remain resilient, focusing on long-term growth rather than short-term disappointments.
Creativity thrives on connections — connections between ideas, experiences, and people. The view from above helps us see these connections more clearly by reminding us that everything is interconnected. Adopting an expansive perspective makes us more likely to see how seemingly unrelated ideas can come together to create something new and innovative.
Consider the story of Steve Jobs, who famously described creativity as “just connecting things.” Jobs often spoke about how his diverse experiences — from studying calligraphy to working on early computer design — influenced his creative work. By seeing the interconnectedness of these experiences, he brought a unique perspective to his work at Apple, leading to groundbreaking innovations. The view from above allows us to do something similar: to step back, see the bigger picture, and recognise how our diverse experiences and knowledge can come together in new and unexpected ways.
Adopting an expansive perspective can also help us see the broader impact of our creative work. Sometimes, we become so focused on the immediate outcome of a project — whether it will be successful or whether others will like it — that we lose sight of its larger purpose. By stepping back and seeing the bigger picture, we can reconnect with the deeper meaning of our work. For instance, filmmaker James Cameron has often spoken about how taking a broader perspective helped him stay motivated during challenging times while creating ‘Avatar.’ By focusing on the larger impact of his work — advancing visual storytelling and promoting environmental awareness — Cameron was able to push through setbacks and maintain his commitment to the project. We can see how our creativity contributes to something larger, whether it’s positively impacting others, advancing knowledge, or simply adding beauty to the world. This sense of purpose can be a powerful motivator, helping us stay committed to our creative pursuits even when the process is challenging.
Adopting an expansive perspective also encourages empathy, a crucial component of creativity. When we take a broader view, we are more likely to consider the perspectives and experiences of others, which can inform and enrich our creative work. For example, a writer might step back and think about how their story resonates with different audiences, leading them to develop more nuanced characters and themes. This empathetic approach enhances the depth of creative work and makes it more relatable and impactful.
Furthermore, seeing the interconnectedness of ideas and experiences encourages us to step outside our comfort zones and explore new knowledge domains. The more we understand the relationships between different fields, the more equipped we are to bring fresh insights into our work. For instance, a scientist interested in art might discover a novel way to visualise data or a musician inspired by engineering might create a new type of instrument. The possibilities are endless when we view the world through a lens of interconnectedness.
Adopting an expansive perspective is beneficial for individual creativity and collaboration. When working in a team, it can be easy for individuals to get caught up in their roles and responsibilities, losing sight of the bigger picture. By encouraging team members to adopt the view from above, leaders can help everyone see how their contributions fit into the project’s larger goals. This sense of interconnectedness can foster a greater sense of purpose and collaboration as team members understand how their work impacts the success of the whole.
For example, consider a team of software developers working on a new application. Each team member is focused on a specific feature or aspect of the project. Without an expansive perspective, it’s easy for team members to become siloed, focusing only on their individual tasks. However, by stepping back and viewing the project from above, they can see how each feature interacts with others, how their work contributes to the overall user experience, and how the application fits into the company’s larger goals. This broader perspective can help the team work cohesively, identify potential issues earlier, and generate innovative solutions.
An expansive perspective also helps to foster a culture of openness and creativity within a team. When team members feel connected to the larger purpose of the project, they are more likely to share ideas, collaborate effectively, and support one another. This sense of shared purpose can lead to a more dynamic and innovative work environment where everyone feels valued and motivated to contribute their best work.
Moreover, when team members understand the larger vision, they are more willing to adapt and pivot when unexpected challenges arise. Instead of becoming attached to their individual contributions, they see themselves as part of a fluid, evolving process. This flexibility is crucial for innovation, as it allows the team to respond to obstacles with agility rather than resistance.
Practices for Cultivating an Expansive Perspective
Adopting an expansive perspective is a skill that can be cultivated through practice. Here are some practical ways to incorporate the view from above into your creative routine:
1. Visualisation Exercise: Set aside time to practise the view from above as a visualisation exercise. Find a quiet place, close your eyes, and imagine yourself rising above your current situation. Visualise yourself looking down at your work, challenges, and life from a high vantage point. Notice how your perspective changes as you gain distance. What new insights do you gain? What connections become clearer? Practising this visualisation regularly can help you develop the habit of seeing the bigger picture.
2. Zoom Out Before Problem-Solving: When faced with a creative challenge, take a moment to “zoom out” before diving into problem-solving. Ask yourself: How does this problem fit into the larger context of my work? What broader goals am I trying to achieve? What other areas of my life or work might be connected to this challenge? By zooming out, you can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the problem and open yourself up to new solutions.
3. Engage with Diverse Perspectives: One of the best ways to cultivate an expansive perspective is to engage with diverse perspectives. Seek out experiences, knowledge, and viewpoints different from your own. Read books on topics outside your field, talk to people with different backgrounds, and explore new hobbies. The more diverse your experiences, the more connections you will be able to see when you adopt the view from above. This diversity of thought can be a powerful source of creative inspiration.
4. Reflect on Your Place in the Bigger Picture: Reflect on your place within the larger whole. This could mean considering your role within your team, community, or even the world. How does your work contribute to something greater? How are you connected to others? Reflecting on these questions can help you gain perspective and purpose, reminding you that your creative efforts are part of something much larger than yourself.
5. Practice Gratitude: Gratitude can help us cultivate an expansive perspective by shifting our focus from what is lacking to what is abundant. When we are feeling stuck or frustrated, it can be helpful to take a step back and reflect on what we are grateful for. This shift in perspective can help us see the bigger picture and recognise the resources, opportunities, and connections available to us.
6. Embrace Complexity: When faced with a complex challenge, try to embrace its complexity instead of seeking to simplify it immediately. Look at all the different facets and consider how they are interconnected. This practice helps you get comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty, often where the most creative ideas are born.
Creativity requires us to see beyond the obvious, to connect disparate ideas, and to imagine new possibilities. The Stoic practice of the view from above offers a powerful way to expand our perspective, helping us gain clarity, overcome creative blocks, and find innovative solutions. By stepping back and seeing the bigger picture, we can challenge our assumptions, recognise new connections, and reconnect with the deeper purpose of our work.
The next time you feel stuck or overwhelmed, take a moment to rise above the situation. Imagine looking down at your work, challenges, and life from a higher vantage point. What do you see? What new insights emerge? Adopting an expansive perspective can unlock new levels of creativity, find fresh inspiration, and approach your work with a renewed sense of purpose.
The view from above reminds us that we are part of something greater — that our creative efforts, no matter how small they may seem, contribute to the vast interconnected web of life. By embracing this perspective, we can find meaning in our work, stay committed to our creative journey, and positively impact the world around us. Elevate your mind, expand your perspective, and watch as your creativity reaches new heights.
Embracing an expansive perspective is about more than just seeing things differently — it’s about transforming how we engage with the world and our potential. Whether working alone or in a team, the ability to rise above, see the connections and understand our place within the larger whole can be the key to unlocking creativity, resilience, and meaningful progress. So take a step back, look at the bigger picture, and allow your creativity to soar.
