Encouraging moments of sudden clarity

Talk to any successful entrepreneur and they will be able to recall when something changed. A piece of the puzzle finally fell in to place. Their understanding of a certain situation suddenly transformed and like the picture of the vase, suddenly the image of two faces appeared.

Of course, everyone experiences paradigm shifts, not just entrepreneurs. When such an event happens, it changes the context in which we view the world. In "real life" this event is often health related. Many of us have lost, or come close to losing someone dear to us and that causes us to reasses our priorities. It suddenly makes us more aware of the bigger picture beyond the day-to-day distractions.

For an entrepreneur, these critical moments are absolutely, well, critical. Maybe, that is when we realise that if we are prepared to, our little business has the potential to go global.

Knowing the value of these paradigm shifts allow us to grow as individuals and consequently, grow our businesses. Yet, unlike a sudden health scare, critical moments for an entrepreneur are not something on has to wait for. With the right knowledge, one can increase the chances of expanding the context.

Shifts such as these happen outside of our comfort zones, when we are challenged. Want to increase the number of shifts? Increase the number of times you find yourself being challenged. Mentors can do this for you. Studying another industry is also a good source. Assuming another role within your business can also do the trick. Sometimes, just reading a book can be the trigger.

What can you do today to expand the context within which you see the world?