The other day as I was reading Sean Covey’s book: The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens (possibly to find an answer to stop procrastinating) and I came across an interesting concept that instantly shifted my view about everything. Covey talks about paradigms. Essentially, a paradigm is your perception about a certain situation or topic. It functions like a pair of glasses that everyone is able to see the world through. Your paradigm of the world around you can tell a lot about your personality, ego, and drive.
Let’s try a simple thought experiment. Think about the last time you ate something you didn’t like. Was it:
a) something you’ve always disliked, ever since you were a kid
b) something that no one likes but isn’t that bad if you think about it (like pineapple of pizza, which is my favourite type of pizza by the way)
c) something that’s just yucky in general
If you chose a), chances are, you’ve had previous experiences with that food that weren’t pleasant; but, that is only your paradigm about that specific type of food. If we’ve had an unlikable experience with something, we’ll immediately grow to dislike it. However, over time if you’re willing to shift paradigms and accept, things won’t be that bad. If you can’t stand boiled eggs and have always said that you’ve disliked eggs in general, try something new. Eat a fried egg or a deviled egg. We can never change if we are never willing to. Give yourself (or eggs at least) a second chance. Maybe, you’ll find your paradigm will shift.
If you chose b), you’ve fallen into the bandwagon zone. Your paradigms are shaped by those around you and your principle centers, what you value, fall into the “Friends/family” and “Self” categories. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Think: does is this thought limiting you from anything? Perhaps a chance to accept pineapple on pizzas? Honestly, I greatly enjoy eating pineapple on pizza, but if the fair majority of people I know, pineapple on pizza seems to be unpreferable. Next time, try eating different pizzas except in a blind taste test. Maybe, you’ll find your paradigm will shift.
If you chose c), this doesn’t have much to do with paradigms but we’ve probably all come to a consensus that bitter melon shouldn’t be eaten, right? Whatever your thoughts are, they probably cannot be changed because everyone seems to feel that way.
This simple experiment was to reveal a little more about yourself. Take a minute to think about your paradigms about friends, family, school and life. Are you pushing yourself or stopping yourself? Take a moment to reflect.
Thanks to everyone for taking the time to read my first post on YAA. I hoped you enjoyed it and I’m looking forward to a fun year of blogging!
Lucy
