Awareness is a natural human ability and an essential catalyst for Personal Brilliance. When we combine it with the other three catalysts, curiosity, focus, and initiative, we can come up with innovative solutions in all areas of our lives.

1. Contemplate and Consider Different Perspectives

The more perspectives you consider, the more choices you will have for how to respond. But find a balance, neither clinging white-knuckled to your own views nor letting others define you and your behavior.

2. Practice Empathy

Put yourself in the other person’s shoes. What were they thinking? Why did they do what they did? For practice, choose someone in an interesting situation and empathize with what they are experiencing.

3. Look Closely at Processes

Consider how and why things are done. Notice how obstacles are part of the process, not a negative to avoid.

4. Peel Back the Layers

When an event occurs, move your awareness beyond your initial reaction. Instead of “Oh no–here comes another problem,” for example, consider what you fear. Forging new relationships? The loss of control? Changes to your routines? Having to be a novice again? Being specific shows ways you can have power over a situation.

5. Pay Attention to Your Breathing

It’s difficult to be engaged in the past or future when focusing on our breathing.

6. Look for Beautiful Designs

Look around you for beautifully designed objects, no matter how small or specialized. Let these things inspire you to be innovative in your life. These designs could be man-made or from nature. Spend a day looking for great design: your coffee mug, your toothbrush, the car, a bridge, a chair. Why are these such great designs?

7. Look for Horrible Designs

Notice terribly designed items. Why was the item designed that way? How could you improve it? (Why is it a requirement that my rental car must be in drive before I can access the cup holder? Don’t ask what happens when you put the gear shift back into park.)