Widening the Lens

You may have heard people say things like, “seeing the forest through the trees” or “getting lost in the details”. It’s usually in the form of some abstract advice on a problem you might be having. In looking so closely at an issue, sometimes the focus limits us in finding a solution.

I have found that I am a detail-oriented person. I cannot ignore the details. It is so inherent in my DNA that I am compelled to point out things such as editing errors in movies, or grammar/spelling errors in absolutely everything I read, and cringe internally when people mispronounce words or use them incorrectly. I can’t help it. To me, the errors leap into my awareness. I couldn’t ignore them if I tried. The most recent example that comes to mind is when I corrected my step-daughter (ever so sensitively) on her use of the word library. After years of hearing “Lie-berry”, I felt it was time. :)

For most of my life, it seems that this trait has served me well. It helps me be accurate and conscientious. I notice the subtleties in the complexity that is human nature and it has helped me to understand and empathize with others. However, I’ve come to also realize how this trait can narrow my attention and distract me from experiencing some of the more joyful and spontaneous things in life. I can get so focused on details that I miss out on opportunities to just live life...to just…be. 

My husband will confirm that I have this sort of tunnel-vision sometimes. I walk around with this weird scowl on my face. I don’t look at anybody. I just gaze into the air and I appear rather annoyed at it. Naturally, he’s convinced I’m upset despite my protests that I’m not. During the times when I’m able to pull myself out of it, I realize I was just…thinking.  My mind had focused itself on every little thing that was happening, that had happened, and that was going to happen all at once. All of that thinking had completely pulled my focus away from engaging with the people around me. The same people whose relationships I cherish. Suddenly, I’m faced with the down-side to my detail-orientation.

So in my effort to experience more than just a series of life’s details, I’m encouraging myself to “widen my lens”. Much like a camera pulls away to zoom out, I want to view “the big picture” of life.  Rather than getting lost in the details, I will strive to let in some of the beauty and joy that is included in every moment we have. I don’t contend that I’m going to be good at it. But every time that I succeed will be a moment where I feel free.