Forced perspective is a photographic illusion generally used to make two or more objects seem to be a different size than their actual size. A classic example of this is when you see a picture of someone pushing against the Leaning Tower of Pisa and it seems like the person is actually supporting it from falling. Forced perspective, however, doesn’t only apply to photography in my opinion. I find that it also occurs quite often in the business world.

Don’t Give Me A Piece Of Bubble Gum And Try To Call It A Meal

Most working professionals are faced with the unfortunate challenge of substantiating their existence within a company (or face getting branded as redundant). You need to openly communicate your value to your stakeholders, managers, peers, etc. This can be done directly (or indirectly) by showcasing what you have contributed to your team and organization as whole. However, certain individuals tend to exhibit what is known as illusory superiority. It’s a trait that causes one to overestimate ones positive qualities and abilities and to underestimate ones negative qualities, relative to others. They are experts at positioning themselves in a positive light even in negative situations.  Sales professionals are masters at this, rather than throwing a collection of dry facts, they give you a piece of bubble gum and try to call it a meal.

Organizational Houdini’s:
Making something seem bigger, smaller, better than it is

They focus more energy on deflection. Making up excuses (e.g. why they didn’t reach their quota) rather than delivering actual results. But this doesn’t just happen in sales – it’s just as rampant in other departments in most large organizations. There are obviously many problems with this approach, and poor managers unfortunately tend to cultivate this kind of organizational behavior.  

Results are directly related to the things you’re either doing or not doing.

Over-communicate with co-workers and make light (early and often) of potential roadblocks that may be hurting your performance. Let’s be honest, we all have our struggles, but time is better spent working towards a solution rather than building the excuse.