Helping our patients with the emotional literacy around “zoom out” and “zoom in”

Are you a “zoom out” person or a “zoom in” person?

“Zoom out” folks see the world on a big screen but at low resolution. Think cinema or the drive-ins. They have more of a “zoom out” perspective to things. Their superpower is to go with the flow, see multiple perspectives, be open minded, think outside the box, and let things go more easily. The problem is, if excessive, they can be indecisive, lack focus, and unable to follow through and finish off projects.

“Zoom in” folks on the other hand see the world through a microscope or a magnifying glass. They have a more “zoom in” approach. They are better at the finer details but not so much with the bigger picture. They are great with seeing things as good or bad, right or wrong, and take decisive actions. If excessive, they can be over-judging, and may be more prone to stress, frustration, and anxiety, especially if they are not in control.

Of course, there are both the “zoom out” and “zoom in” function in all of us, but one is usually stronger in us.

The question is, which one is more you. Which one do you usually overuse? Knowing oneself and fully accepting oneself, is the first step for better “titration” and “balance”.

One can also observe that if your partner is more of a “zoom out” person, chances are, you are more of a “zoom in” person. If your partner is more of a “zoom in” person, chances are, you are more of a “zoom out” person.

If not careful, the “zoom in” person will often blame the “zoom out” person for being too “airy fairy”, lack focus or not caring enough. A “zoom out” person will often blame the “zoom in” person for being too judging, controlling, and negative. The reality is, one needs the other. A “zoom out” without a “zoom in”, will lack focus and follow through. A “zoom in” without a “zoom out”, will lack openness and potential.

One complements the other, as long as there is understanding, acknowledgement, and appreciation. Furthermore, one can change in different context and “social ecosystems”.

Some will use the term painter vs pointers. Perceivers vs judgers. Detached vs fused. Similar concepts and ideas in my opinion.