ZenDonut

“The distance between insanity and genius is measured only by success.” - Bruce Feirstein

Do you ever find yourself enjoying a good discussion … only to realize that you’re alone? Do you ever learn anything from yourself? If I say that I have, would you think that my tenuous link with sanity is getting weaker by the minute?

I think everyone experiences some degree of both conscious and sub-conscious internal dialogue. The idea of using positive internal dialogue to bolster optimism or confidence is a common idea and is not what this is about. Rather, if you read my earlier post regarding the 3E framework, an important element was the Exercise (mental exercise) activity. My concept is that the mind needs exercise to become “stronger”(similar to a muscle). One great technique to exercise that gelatinous blob in your cranium with which I’d like you to experiment is to intentionally talk to yourself. Structure an internal dialogue around topics that force you to think in a way that is outside of your comfort zone (I suspect that you know your comfort zone … for example, if you’re an artist, develop ideas on tax policy). The point is not to come up with the “right” answers, but to consider concepts that may be foreign to your thinking, and most importantly to take the time to exercise your mind in ways that you might never do otherwise. Just keep the following rules “in mind” (pun intended):

Rule 1: Don’t talk to yourself aloud much in the presence of others (at least not people you know)

Rule 2: Do ask yourself difficult questions that challenge your thinking

Rule 3: Do try to consider the validity of all viewpoints

Rule 4: Do make arguments from differing viewpoints

Rule 5: Do hold a two sided argument with yourself (no “name calling”)

Rule 6: Don’t limit yourself to topics on which you are already an expert

Rule 7: Do use the drive to work, or your time in the shower for this exercise

Rule 8: Do feel free to have the discussion without speaking aloud … just don’t get sidetracked

Rule 9: Do ocassionally use the technique for topics relevant to your career/ family/ life/ etc.

Rule 10: Don’t forget rule number 1

Have fun and let me know if this technique works for you. It seems to help me. Oh does it? Yes it does and you know it.

- Mike (if you like the article, please “Digg It”)

Photo by faster panda kill kill