Sunday, August 9, 2009

Thinking out of the Box?

I always hear people referring to the phrase "thinking out of the box" and I never really understand the extend of such application. For instance, when solving problem, try thinking of out the box or when brain storming, try thinking of out the box. You get the idea ... However, this phrase has a brand new meaning to me recently, thinking out of the box is not all about coming up unconventional ideas or creative thinking, it is the attitude to life.

After spending the past few years in Hong Kong, I find myself living in a box. I seriously think I am not the only one in Hong Kong who has the same feeling. The social, cultural and economic atmosphere in Hong Kong is a big rigid cloudy box of which many of us are trying to find a spot within to settle down (or at least to get comfortable with). However, it is a very crowded box that is shrinking in my opinion. You would find yourself trying very hard to make adjustments to your life, your belief and even your moral principle in order to fit into this little box and to get along with the others who are doing the same thing. Do you know what exactly you are doing or trying to achieve when fitting in?

Why are we all doing that? Why are people from all over the world try to come into this little box? I am sure we all have our own reasons but the question is whether that is the right reason(s). I understand it is such a cliche to say "follow your dreams" because there are million reasons, limitations or family responsibilities standing in between your dreams; but can't all these limitations or responsibilities be overcome outside this box? I am starting to this it is indeed possible.

By getting out of this box, it has nothing to do with the lack of perseverance, patience or even your capability to adapt to different environments; it is to do with your attitude and how you want to protect that from the influence inside the box. If you are trying to find ways to fit yourself within the box reluctantly or unwillingly, you are being led instead of to lead. First step is to think out of the box, then look outside the box, reach out of the box and then stay out of the box. You don't have to stay inside the box to achieve your objectives or to overcome your responsibilities. Why travel on your life journey inside a square box when you stay outside the box and walk on your two feet? I am thinking about it ... so should you!

1 comments:

Judy Lam said...

Hey Jason,

Cheer up! I think the box that you talked about can sometimes be self-imposed. It's good that you're starting to come out of it. HK may not be as small as you perceive. Hang out with more different people, do more different things, or take a short trip somewhere. You'll feel better. :) Like call me out some time la!

Judy

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