The other day, Beth and I were driving in the car and having a lively discussion about our future. I told her that I wasn’t sure that what we were sharing with people was all that special. “Anyone can do it,” I said.

She looked at me (I was driving), and rattled off a dozen or so points to prove that not only was our message special, but we were uniquely qualified to deliver it.

I said back to her, “I know all those things, but don’t confuse your facts with my perception.”

Even though there were plenty of ‘facts’ to back up her position and disprove mine, it didn’t matter. The only thing that mattered to me was my perception. Since I’m responsible for what I experience, it’s what’s in my head that counts. Everyone around me could see things one way, but the way I see them is reflected back to me in my life experiences.

Many of us were raised to think there is an objective truth out there, and it’s our job to align with it.

However, we each create our own truths. What’s true for me might not align with what’s true for you. We each bring our thoughts, beliefs, and feelings into every experience and create our truth in the moment. Even for an individual, the truth can change over time as we ourselves change.

Going back to the lively discussion Beth and I were having in the car, the facts didn’t make a bit of difference for me. I had my perception, and that is what I believed.

I can choose to listen to Beth tell me her ‘facts’, and it’s my choice to change my perception and believe them. When I do, I will change and they will become facts for me.

The difference between facts and perception is empowering when we realize we don’t have to look outside to find a truth to align with. As we create our truth, the world lines up to match what we believe is true.