What Is a Global Perspective and Why We Need It
The Metaverse, blockchain, and influencer lifestyles are examples of how fast our world is changing. With all these advancements, how prepared are you for the 21st century? In this article, we talk about how thinking globally can put you ahead.
What is a Global Perspective?
A global perspective is seeing and understanding how any situation impacts or relates to people around the world.
As a generation that gets to see the internet come to life, we get access to entertainment and information from people all over the world. It is a massive breakthrough. If we want to preserve it and play a role in it, having this global perspective is non-negotiable.
Aside from the Metaverse, thinking globally prepares us to lead and stay ahead of changes that may come. It will speak multitudes if you are able to perceive economics, politics, sociology and any other fields from a global perspective.
Here are some examples of how global perspectives have helped humanity progress forward:
- International trade and supply chains;
- The establishment of United Nations;
- Scientific and medical discoveries;
- Translations of books and media;
- Study and work abroad opportunities;
- Tourism and culture;
- The Olympics;
- The popularisation of yoga from India to Western regions;
and more.
Importance of Global Perspectives
So, how does adopting a global perspective help you as an individual?
1. It inspires creativity.
A study from Scientific American titled “How Diversity Makes Us Smarter” found that socially diverse groups are more innovative than homogenous groups. That means, in anything at all, people from all walks of life will yield more unique solutions and positive results. So, thinking globally and seeking solutions from other races or nations is better than relying on one resource.
2. It makes you an agent of change.
The phrase “Think globally, act locally” perfectly sums up why we need a global perspective. It may seem like the grass is always greener on the other side, but who says it can’t be the same here? You can be an agent of change, whether you’re a student, intern, employee, or entrepreneur. It won’t be easy, but you will need to see what’s already been done and adapt it to serve your community.
3. It increases your hiring potential.
According to Forbes, the number one skill sought by employers is creativity. This is still true today, and thinking globally means you are able to look beyond what’s in front of you. Being able to accept diverse viewpoints also strengthens your collaboration skills. It will look great on your resume and make a strong first impression. Plus points if you have experience working abroad or with an international team!
How to Develop a Global Perspective
Certain curricula make it a point to integrate global education in school, with values like interdependence and globalisation, identity and cultural diversity, social justice and human rights, peace and conflict, and sustainable futures.
If you didn’t get to learn with global education, you can still be a part of the conversation. Here are some ways you can develop a global perspective:
1. Read the news.
The news (and we don’t mean celebrity gossip) is a foolproof way to stay updated on what’s going on around the world. You will never get bored with a wide range of topics from sports to politics. Reading the news increases your general knowledge, enhances your communications, and cultivates empathy for people beyond your social circles.
2. Explore entertainment from various cultures.
You can also step up your game by taking in foreign music, movies, and literature. With media platforms like Netflix, YouTube, Spotify, and podcasts, there is an endless stream of information available for you. These international forms of media are culturally embedded and will help you understand how things work in foreign countries across different eras.
3. Do an internship abroad.
Our role here at Capital Placement is to connect you to internships around the world that enrich your student experience. Our range of part-time, full-time, and remote internships offers immersive experiences in Singapore, London, New York, and India. There are many benefits you gain from an international internship, but the main one is that it activates your international-mindedness.
If you want to make the most out of your international internship, we recommend that you build a global and professional network while you are there. You should also learn about your industry at an international level and compare your experiences abroad with the reality back home. This will definitely spark some food for thought.
Final Thoughts
The next time you encounter an issue, try asking questions like “What if?” “Why not?” “How would someone else do this from another part of the world?”. Doing that will make you a more dynamic, inclusive, and creative individual.
Want to score an internship abroad? Reach out to us!
