As humans, we all have a tendency to see the world through the filters of our own experiences. But true understanding comes from being willing to set aside preconceptions and view life through another lens. Only then can we discover new insights and appreciate different realities. Imagine a civil engineer who had spent his career designing bridges. He took immense pride in his work and felt he had a deep understanding of structural integrity and safety standards. On weekends, he enjoyed photographing landscapes, but often found himself scrutinizing the structures within them with a critical eye. One day, on a hike through the redwoods, his lens was filled with bark, branches and towering trunks. For a moment, he forgot his usual analytical approach and simply admired the natural beauty before him. It was then that he noticed aspects of the forests’ design he had never considered – the intricate root systems that strengthened the towering trees, the flexibility that allowed them to withstand ferocious winds. He realized how much he still had to learn from nature’s master architects. We all live our lives through the filter of our own narrow experiences. But wisdom lies in being open to taking off those filters from time to time, to embrace different perspectives without judgment. Only then can we gain new insights and appreciate realities outside our domain of expertise. Whether it’s considering other cultures, roles, careers or beliefs, fresh perspectives help broaden our understanding far beyond what our limited lens can offer alone. In an increasingly complex world, empathy and nuance are key. The ability to walk in another’s shoes humbles our perspective and enriches our view of life’s bigger picture. Flexibility of thought is what allows growth, discovery and a greater appreciation of our shared human experience.