Thinking Differently

There is a saying 'if you want to get the results others get, do what they do". While this is true, there is a point that this outlook misses. The truth is that the only reason we do what others do is because we think the way they do. Therefore, if you want what others have, model your thinking after theirs.

Of course, this brings me to the point that I feel encompasses most of society: few pay attention to what they think about. Instead, they default to a particular mindset that was created by the environment they grew up in. This is where the term 'group think' comes from. People of the same ilk tend to think the same.

When it comes to freedom, my belief is that we need to think differently than the average person. The reason why I say this is because most people are woefully unhappy with their present state of affairs. They live existences that are mired in average. Exceptional, intoxicating, or motivating are not terms applied to how they live. Instead, because of the decisions that are made on a daily basis, people end up being slaves. They allow society to take over without a fight. The indoctrination process ensures that submission is almost completed by the time one reaches adulthood.

If you are going to continue to think in the same manner as everyone else, then you are assured of following in this same pattern. Strategic rebellion is always a good thing. Of course, the word strategic guarantees that we are not rebelling just to rebel. That is a childish approach. This method means that someone actively looks at what society promotes and consciously decides what applies. In each instance, one needs to ask, is this belief helping or hindering my life? The answer dictates whether that belief remains or is removed.

I write often about the importance of thinking. There is nothing more crucial than taking control of your mindset. It is the one factor, if selected, that you can control in all instances. Considering freedom in everything you do is a route that few take. Most never consider the impact of present decisions on future freedom. For example, when one buys a car, he or she usually looks at the monthly payment as to whether it is affordable. Rarely does one take the time to really consider how this decision will affect future freedom. A monthly expense compounded over a number of years equates to a big loss. The opportunity cost of the car is high when compared to investing that money at an average return.

Understanding the mistaken thinking that the average person presents on a daily basis is vital in our pursuit of total freedom. Over the next few posts I am going to spell out some how this appears. Beginning the process in our mind will ensure success. Remember, it isn't the actions of others that we are concerned with but, rather, the thinking behind it.