Step Into Their Shoes

Approach your idea from other people’s perspectives by stepping in their shoes. Literally. You need other perspectives on your ideas so that you remove the blinders inherent in working only from your own point of view.

Take a pair of your most comfortable shoes. Identify at least two people you will approach at some point with your idea who think differently from you. Example:  If you are a very optimistic person, identify a pessimist. If you are entrepreneurial, identify someone bound to a job or career. Tape a piece of paper with each name onto one of each of your shoes. Put your shoes onto your opposite feet so that your left shoe is on your right foot and your right shoe is on your left foot. Now walk around. Note how uncomfortable they feel.

Imagine each person you identified with each step forward that you take. Make note of how that person will view and react to your idea. Prepare your responses and gather the details you need to address the different perspectives.

Walk in other people’s shoes to step out of your comfort zone. When you make decisions and act staying only in your comfort zone, familiarity and enthusiasm about your own idea can blind you to essential details.