Blind Spots and Breakthroughs

The airport pickup was pure chaos—my young daughters laughing, balloons filling our minivan, the anticipation of a birthday celebration. As I backed up, my rearview mirror was useless, blocked by decorations, and my side mirrors showed nothing. I haphazardly backed up—then bam!—straight into a brick pillar. I never saw it coming. Years later, automakers introduced Blind Spot Information Systems to prevent accidents like mine. Still, that day, my damaged bumper and ego were a costly reminder that blind spots exist in more ways than one.

Regardless of our experience, there are things we cannot see. Each of us has blind spots—areas where we lack awareness or understanding and often overlook. Yet, others notice them quickly. It’s easy to spot faults in others while missing our own, which is why Benjamin Franklin advised, “Search others for their virtues, but look within yourself for your vices.” Self-examination helps us identify and address these hidden faults before they damage family, careers, relationships, or faith.

Blind spots can have real consequences. An athlete who ignores a flawed technique may not improve, a leader who doesn’t listen may create workplace tension, a parent unaware of their words may discourage their child, and a person who overlooks their shortcomings may impede their spiritual growth. If we fail to address these hidden drawbacks, they can cause setbacks, strain relationships, and limit opportunities.

Why is it so hard to see our weaknesses, and why do we hesitate to ask for help or struggle to admit we are wrong?

Often, our greatest blind spots don’t come from ignorance but from an unwillingness to acknowledge the truth. Just because we don’t see a problem doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist, and it can shape our reality in ways we don’t recognize. The right people in our lives—trusted friends, mentors, and family—can help us see what we’re missing. Honest feedback, combined with prayer and self-reflection, reveals the areas where we need to grow.

Basketball star LeBron James noted, “The more I learn about myself, the more I realize there are areas I have to work on.” Growth requires humility and a willingness to listen and learn. Rather than fearing correction, we should view it as an opportunity to improve. Inviting those trusted voices into your lives and approaching life with openness in seeking guidance will help uncover our blind spots and allow us to walk more confidently in our purpose.

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