This is a profound question! We often become victims of perspective because our worldview is shaped by our past experiences, fears, and expectations. Here's how:
Fear of the Future: Our anxieties about the future can distort how we engage with the present. We obsess over "what if" scenarios and worst-case outcomes, trapping ourselves in worry instead of enjoying the now. We make decisions based on hypothetical fears rather than actual possibilities.
Self-fulfilling Prophecies: The perspective we hold often dictates our actions. If we believe we’re not good enough, we may behave in ways that reinforce that belief, unintentionally creating circumstances that prove it. Thus, we become victims of the story we tell ourselves.
Over-identifying with Thoughts: Our mind generates endless thoughts, often without much basis in reality. When we believe these thoughts unquestionably, we let them dictate how we feel, perceive, and act. By identifying with every thought, we limit our potential to see life as it really is.
Cultural/Social Influence: Our perspectives are shaped not only by personal experience but also by the culture, family, and society we belong to. This can limit our view of what’s possible, trapping us in a fixed mindset about ourselves and others. For example, societal norms might dictate success as financial wealth, causing us to feel "less than" if we don’t conform to that standard.
Breaking free from being victims of perspective requires a shift into awareness. When we practice mindfulness, we can observe our thoughts and emotions without being controlled by them. We start seeing life as it is—not as our conditioning and fears want us to believe. Embracing presence helps us transcend those limiting perspectives.