BLINDNESS

What we think is real is often an illusion or our version of it. You hold assumptions about how the world works – or doesn’t work for you. These assumptions get embedded into habitual thoughts and behaviours as we grow up, making much of our being culturally determined.  When we interpret what we see and hear in the same way, tomorrow feels the same as yesterday. We are then living in a “default” mindset.

This makes it almost impossible to adopt a different perspective on life. As a result, there is no incentive to be flexible and adaptable. If we hold on to what we think are “facts” or our own “truths” without questioning their logic or verifiable evidence, we cannot even entertain alternative perspectives or see new possibilities, until we face the fact that our preferred view of the world is just one of many that make up the bigger picture.

If we allow ourselves to zoom in and zoom out of our current way of thinking and being in a situation, we can see things in a bigger context and then in greater detail. This helps the mind to get greater clarity and focus on situations. Try turning an issue into a picture or diagram. Describe what you see, consider what it means and what alternative action could be taken. What thoughts come to mind when you consider events at different times, situations, theoretically, pragmatically, etc?

1. When did you first become aware of the issue that’s of concern to you?
2. How would you describe it to a 6-year-old?
3. If you go back 5 years how would the story you are telling yourself be different?
4. What advice is a trusted friend, mentor or parent likely to give you?
5. What do you feel in your body when thinking about this concern?

Q: Now what it’s important or less important than your first thought?

Q: What new opportunities for taking action suggest themselves?