Perspective Taking: A Powerful Tool for Mental Health

Why seeing through someone else’s eyes can help us heal, connect, and grow

Have you ever stopped in the middle of a frustrating conversation and wondered, “What might they be thinking or feeling right now?” That moment — when we pause to consider another person’s point of view — is called perspective taking. And it’s more than just an empathy exercise; it’s a mental health skill that can transform the way we relate to others and ourselves.

What Is Perspective Taking?

Perspective taking is the ability to put yourself in someone else’s shoes — to imagine what it might feel like to be them in a particular moment. It doesn’t mean you have to agree with them, or even condone their actions. It simply means being curious about another person's internal experience:

• What might be going on in their life right now?

• What are they feeling that I might not see on the surface?

• How would I feel if I were in their position?

It also works inwardly. Taking a compassionate perspective on your own past self — especially during difficult moments — can reduce shame and increase self-understanding.

Why It Matters for Mental Health

Perspective taking has powerful benefits for emotional well-being:

1. Reduces Conflict and Misunderstanding

When we shift from reacting to reflecting, we respond with more calm and less defensiveness. This leads to healthier communication, especially in close relationships. 2. Increases Empathy and Connection

Understanding another person’s struggles, fears, or motivations fosters deeper compassion. This can reduce loneliness and build more authentic bonds — something especially important for mental health.

3. Improves Self-Compassion

Looking back at a younger version of yourself — with kindness instead of criticism — is a form of perspective taking. It's a way of saying, “I did the best I could with what I knew then.” This shift is often a turning point in therapy and healing.

4. Supports Emotional Regulation

When we see others as layered and complex (rather than all good or all bad), we’re less likely to get stuck in black-and-white thinking. This promotes psychological flexibility — a key ingredient in mental resilience.

How to Practice Perspective Taking

Like any skill, this takes intention and practice. Here are a few simple ways to get started:

• Ask, don’t assume: “What else could be true here?” or “What might they be feeling that I’m not seeing?”

• Pause before reacting: Give yourself space to reflect instead of jumping to conclusions.

• Use reflective writing: Journaling about a situation from someone else’s point of view can unlock new insights.

• Practice with media: Try imagining the inner world of a character in a book or show — what are their motivations and fears?

Perspective taking doesn’t mean excusing hurtful behavior or ignoring your own needs. It’s about adding understanding to the conversation — with others and with yourself. And that understanding can lead to better communication, more empathy, and emotional healing.

At New View Psychology Group, we help clients develop tools like this every day. Whether you’re navigating conflict, feeling stuck in your thoughts, or working toward greater self-compassion, we’re here to support your journey.