Perspective Taking is a skill I believe we all should have. It is the ability for one to see someone else’s point of view. We all think differently and have access to different things. Looking at things from your perspective only, especially when trying to analyse someone else’s life, or situation is a bad idea. Not having this skill cultivates hatred and close-mindedness.
Many people believe if a person doesn’t share their opinions and thoughts. They think they are wrong, and refuse to listen to their opinion. It is important to hear a person out who doesn’t think like you. Their thoughts may actually make sense once you listen. They key is one must learn to communicate and listen. You won’t understand their opinion, or situation unless you listen. This goes for romantic relationships, friendships, work relationships, or just with any other human being.
Arguments happen, but it is important to talk through them once the anger subsides, and listen to each other’s point of view, so both parties can come to an understanding. One thing is you should never put your thoughts, and life into someone else’s shoes. You must always open up your mind and see things from their perspective. They may not have the same access to things, or have the same mentality, or have different upbringings, or they are from a different culture, or experienced different things from you. Remember a lot of things come to play, so making snap judgments is an inaccurate way to understand someone. Perspective taking leads to understanding, empathy, and compassion, so it is a very useful and wonderful skill to have.
Psychology of Mindfulness 