When We Re-think What We Think We Know… We Grow

Often, we hold beliefs or ideas that seem certain, shaped by our past experiences, education, or cultural influences. But growth requires that we challenge our preconceived notions – actually seeking a higher truth… a greater understanding of what is possible when we change our thinking. And this is uncomfortable for most. We tend to find comfort in the status quo.

But this willingness to question assumptions (our beliefs) allows us to break free from mental rigidity and explore greater potential to achieve greater outcomes. In the macro sense, we know this. Ford rethought the horse and buggy. Lincoln rethought slavery. Steve Jobs rethought iPhone-technologies. You and I probably rethink how we get to work some days.

But for many of us, we do not invest enough time (and discomfort) in questioning our own beliefs and how we do things in our our own enterprises - in order to grow and improve.

When we invest just 15-20 minutes a day in quiet solitude thinking about our daily processes, systems, the language we use, and the overall feelings that our business cultures create for customers... and then ask ourselves, “What do I believe is keeping me from achieving the next step?" Or, What do I need to re-think so I can better optimize and advance what we do?" Or, "How does my current thinking stand in the way of my future growth?"

In essence, growth begins the moment we embrace the idea that what we know is not fixed but fluid, capable of evolving with each new insight. Yes, a little uncomfortable. But we all know that growth requires a degree of discomfort.