Our observation skills inform us about objects, events, attitude and phenomena using one or more senses. Additionally being able to observe and gather information about the world is important because it is the basis of communicating well. Observation skill enhances your ability to interact with others and to respond in an appropriate manner. It is key to success at work and at home.
Observation is a whole brain skill. There are few things which are in your nature we call it talent which no one can teach. Your observation is nothing but a way of living life. It is all about giving equal importance to objects around us. It is all about feeling and appreciating things.
Ten behaviour and habits of thoughts critical for developing accurate observation skills:
- Sizing up people- people watching
- Clarity- seeing the world as it is
- Curiosity- Asking why
- Listening skills
- Willingness to keep aside personal biases
- Willingness to seek the inputs of others
- Seeking out new experiences and possibilities
- Being comfortable with ambiguity
- Knowledge of behaviour and attitude of people
- Self knowledge – accurately knowing your own behaviour, attitude and personal skills and how they impact others.
Observation is the most important and fruitful activity of an individual at any stage of life. Even more important than observation is accurate observation. Often our eyes and brain play trick on us, letting us see what we expect to see instead of what is actually there. Observation is what we do instinctively It is more than simply noticing something. It involves perception and the recognition of the subject’s importance or significance.
Observations should be done on three segments to gather information and wisdom to be successful.
Observing others – We have to deal with people at different levels every single day. It becomes important to observe them to understand them better. It helps to understand their strength, weakness, personality, attitude, work ethics, patterns and a person as a whole. It becomes easier to communicate and work with them for mutual benefits.
Observing the environment – Environment play a vital role in achieving success. It is very important to observe the environment in which we spend our time.
Environment ———– Actions———- Behaviour———- Habits——— destination
Observing the environment helps us know where we stand and where we will reach.
Observing self – This is the most important exercise to be done for growth and success. It should be done honestly without any prejudice or ego. It enables to understand self better, get aware of the strength, weakness, blockages and fixations. It also gives clarity about the aspirations and goals. When observed properly it can also design a road map to success.
Observation is a habit and a practice which can be learned, sharpened and improved.
Ways to improve observation:
Experience new things– It will help you to improve observation by engaging your attention and paying close attention, paying close attention to the environment and experience. It will increase your knowledge and using your power of observation is the best way to develop the skill.
Meditate – Meditation enhances the brain’s activity levels. This means faster processing, better memory, focus, attention etc. All this skills are important for observation.
Logic makes you sharp- When you use your logic you observe more and deeply.
Travel frequently – Travelling will open new things and experiences. It will allow you to think differently. You will be able to accept new experiences and changes. You will come across many new things which indeed will make you observe and think more.
Practice memory recollection – Once you do that you start observing your activity and work for betterment.
Learn through trial and error – It is concrete learning and sharpens observation skill.
A few quotes on Observation:
- If you make listening and observation your occupation, you will gain much more than you talk.
- A few observation and much reasoning lead to error and many observation and little reasoning lead to truth.
- To acquire knowledge one must study but to acquire wisdom one must observe.
- Observation creates the difference.
