Few things are more gratifying than to witness a client or a friend shatter an assumption that was holding them back. For example, the CEO who believed his board Chair would never allow him to make a bold acquisition, the coach who wouldn’t have considered approaching a superstar influencer to join his team, or the entrepreneur whose series of startups all appeared to garner exciting initial response only to gain little traction when marketed to a larger public.
Our minds constantly reduce the vast expanse of reality to create a world we can grasp. Typically, the mind prefers what endorses our existing self image. We see according to what we already believe to be true. Most of us therefore are wise enough to suspect that in some way we are living in a bubble, and every so often it is smart to seek a new perspective.
Here is a three-step practice to see beyond the bubble of our usual assumptions.
1. Where Am I Lying To Myself?
Have ready pencil and paper, or device, to journal. Set a timer for 10 minutes. Begin with whatever takes you into a deeply open space. Eyes closed for three deep breaths works just fine. Then write the question: Where am I lying to myself? Write down whatever answer comes, then ask the question again. Each time, go a little deeper, and repeat until the time is up.
2. What Really Matters?
After a stretch, set the timer for 5 minutes. This time, write the question: What really matters? Think about what you want, now and in the future. Write down your most important priorities, and refine until you have a clear and up-to-date statement of your vision, values or purpose.
3. What Is Stopping Me?
Finally, write the question: What is stopping me? As you write each answer, come up with a solution, a next most urgent step so this issue no longer prevents your forward movement. You may be surprised how many apparent blocks dissolve in 10 minutes.
Our bubbles probably keep us comfortable in some way. Our hopes are protected inside, our risks less scary and goals less tested. It takes courage to burst your bubble. I always feel empty, and ordinary, vulnerable, whenever my world view blows open into a bigger reality. Yet also more connected. More grounded. More accessible.
I would love to hear your experience of the opportunities that opened up for you when you took the courage to step out of your reality into a bigger space.
Best,
David Lesser