Written by: Ginger Carlson, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
Paradoxes are fascinating enigmas that challenge our conventional thinking. They are statements or situations that seem contradictory, yet hold an underlying truth. Embracing paradoxes can offer unique insights, enhance problem-solving skills, and lead to personal growth. In this article, we'll explore how to partner with paradoxes, turning them from problems into opportunities for self-discovery and multidimensional growth.
Recognize the Paradox. The first step in partnering with a paradox is to recognize its existence. Identify situations, ideas, or challenges in your life or organization where opposing ideas seem to coexist, causing confusion or conflict. Acknowledge that you might be dealing with a paradox rather than a conventional problem.
Release Judgment. To effectively navigate a paradox, it's crucial to release judgment. Understand that paradoxes are not inherently negative; they simply involve two opposing ideas coexisting. By letting go of judgment, you create a space for exploration and understanding.
Be the Mirror to Brave Work. Embracing paradoxes requires a reflective and proactive approach. Be the mirror to your own "brave work" by stepping outside of yourself and adopting a perspective-taking mindset. This process allows you to embrace your unique qualities, even the challenging or shadowy aspects, ultimately preparing you for personal growth and self-acceptance.
Addressing the Paradox. Once you've gained a better understanding of the paradox and accepted its presence, it's time to address it. This involves finding ways to harmonize the seemingly conflicting elements. Consider how you can integrate both sides of the paradox into your decision-making, actions, and strategies.
Thank the Deep End. Embracing paradoxes often means stepping outside of your comfort zone. Understand that personal and organizational growth comes from embracing discomfort and curiosity. Strive to find a balance between and exploration, allowing yourself to touch the deep end of your soul, where profound growth and learning reside.
Embrace Multidimensionality. Partnering with paradoxes ultimately leads to embracing your own multidimensionality. As individuals and within organizations, we consist of various facets, some of which may appear contradictory. Embrace these complexities as opportunities for growth, innovation, and self-expression.
Paradoxes are not problems to be solved but rather opportunities to be embraced. By recognizing, releasing judgment, actively addressing, and thanking the deep end, you can partner with paradoxes to unlock your multidimensional potential. Embrace the complexity within yourself and your organization, and watch as what once felt like practice transforms into a meaningful partnership with paradox.
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Ginger Carlson, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Dr. Ginger Carlson is an international keynote and TEDx speaker, leader, and award-winning author. She has presented and written widely on the topics of creativity, communication, growth, and transformation, and how to uniquely and positively nurture each of them in our personal lives and organizations. Dr. Carlson is the co-founder of Möbius Dynamics and CEO of The Multarity Project™. She can be contacted through her websites https://www.gingercarlson.com/ and https://www.multarityproject.com/
