Stuck in a Paradigm

Paradigms are ways of thinking on an issue. Most of ours are in cement due to the family system we grew up in, our other life experiences, the people we hang around, and the literature/media we take in.  And we sort of like it that way. Doesn’t stretch our minds much. Can make us lazy thinkers and relaters.

If we have studied an issue extensively and these paradigms are grounded in truth, then a concrete conviction in that area is a good thing. If we become close-minded to what could be gray, that we think is black or white, an immovable paradigm limits our growth.

Expand your paradigms through purposeful choices to see things from others’ points of view. Initiate conversations with those outside your typical sphere of influence. Read outside of your trade. Watch a different type of movie or surf to a different type of blog than normal. It’s really the only other way to see with different eyes, and become a more well-rounded person–someone who can have greater influence in this life.