旁观者清 Onlookers see clearly
Explanation
比喻当事人由于利害关系或其他原因看不清问题的实质，而局外人却看得清楚。
This idiom means that those involved in a situation are often blind to its essence, while outsiders see clearly.
Origin Story
唐朝时期，有个大臣叫魏征，他很擅长评判政治得失。有一次，唐太宗李世民问魏征：‘你认为我执政以来，做得怎么样？’魏征并没有直接回答，而是说：‘旁观者清，当局者迷，陛下如果想知道自己做的怎么样，不妨去问问那些没有参与政事的人民百姓。’唐太宗采纳了魏征的建议，派人四处调查民意，最后根据民情，改进了很多政策，使大唐国运更加昌隆。
During the Tang Dynasty, there was a minister named Wei Zheng, who was very good at judging the success or failure of political decisions. Once, Emperor Taizong Li Shimin asked Wei Zheng: 'What do you think of my reign?' Wei Zheng did not answer directly, but said: 'Outsiders see clearly, those involved are blind. Your Majesty, if you want to know how you have done, you should ask the people who are not involved in politics.' Emperor Taizong took Wei Zheng's advice, sent people to investigate public opinion, and finally improved many of his policies, making the Tang Dynasty even more prosperous.
Usage
多用于评价对事情看法不同的人；常与“当局者迷”连用。
Often used to describe the different perspectives of those involved and outsiders; often used with “当局者迷”.
Examples
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当局者迷，旁观者清。
dangjuzhemimi, pangguanzheqing
Those involved are confused, while onlookers see clearly.
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对于这件事，旁观者清，我们应该听听他们的意见。
duiyuzhejianshi, pangguanzheqing, womengaitingting tamen de yijian
In this matter, outsiders have a clearer perspective; we should listen to their opinions.