It’s Time to Change the Channel in Your Mind

Life is conceptual — and the picture is evolving all the time.

A concept, by definition, is an idea in the making — a creative, strategic blueprint to move us from where we are to where we want to be.

Visionaries are said to be conceptual, having the ability to peer into the future with unfiltered curiosity and purpose. But are they really directing their focus toward a single outcome? Or does the magic resulting from their brainstorming lie in their ability to transform information and questions into a type of virtual reality — as if choreographing a free-form dance in their mind?

How cool is that, to know that any thought — if given the opportunity — can start from a concept, grow into an idea, and evolve into a mental representation that, eventually, becomes our reality?

Imagine the power — and the possibilities.

Concepts typically begin as a need, a want, or a desire for change.

And in those formative stages, lots of alternatives are considered, with the core need — and the cost of acquiring it — determining which options we pursue and which ones we abandon.

It’s a start.

And that’s all we need, because even with a well-defined objective, we can’t know exactly what it will take to complete the goal. The actual price we pay — in resources, time, and opportunity cost — won’t be tallied until we’ve crossed the finish line.

Here’s an example. When you watch TV, you probably have a favorite channel or program. But you may also consider watching other shows. Some may be similar to your favorites, while others will be very different. In either case, you’re looking for variety, perspective, or a dose of sheer entertainment.

Yet, you’ll likely keep coming back to your favorites, because the plot, the dialogue, or the characters typically deliver some truth or commonality that resonates with you.

You may experience the same feeling with a favorite blogger, author, or podcast host. There’s a strong interest, even loyalty, because you trust the source — you know you won’t be disappointed by the message.

But out of sheer curiosity, you’ll explore other sources, even those with opposing viewpoints. Because that’s how knowledge and awareness grow — opening your mind to other possibilities and perspectives to accrue more facts and information — by learning what you do not yet know.

And maybe your concept of the world will change, or shift, or expand.

Each thought has the potential to become part of our reality.

Providing the right mental environment — the headroom to explore challenging objectives without preconceptions, bias, or premature judgement — can stretch the boundaries of our current limitations, and eventually become the foundation of a new future.

A future where we’ll continue to seek out more new and exciting possibilities.

© 2020 Jill Reid. All Rights Reserved.

Jill Reid is the author of Real Life and Discover Your Personal Truth.

Here are a few tips and strategies for creating a positive mental environment for personal growth:

Jill Reid is the founder of Pathway to Personal Growth and author of Real Life and Discover Your Personal Truth. Her books and articles explore life, happiness, relationships, health, and personal success strategies.