How do you think?

Ever thought about how you think? How do your thoughts originate? Is there even an original thought? Or do all thoughts originate from a source which has earlier thoughts?

Understanding our thinking patterns can provide great insights into how we work or chose the work that we do. Take the simple example of calling for a press conference. You may not be consciously aware of it, but the way you draw up the plan, schedule the conversation, prepare the narrative, and overall think all about it, is steeped into how those thoughts originally came to your mind.

Perhaps you heard of it from others. Maybe you saw your competitors follow that format. Thoughts after all, are made up of memories. Imagine how many memories your brain carries! According to Mark Twain, human beings can turn old ideas into new, curious combinations. However, he also said, thoughts are “the same old pieces of colored glass that have been in use through all the ages.”

Cultivating new ways of thinking

It is very easy to fall back on old ideas and familiar ways of working. Human beings, however, are gifted with the ability to be creative and innovative. And that needs to be harnessed to the fullest. This is not as easy as it sounds because our mind is always thinking. We have thoughts running across our mind all the time. The point is how to be conscious of what we think, capture those thoughts before we say them out or act on them, and look for ways of making them more creative.

Theoretical physicist Leonard Mlodinow in his book ‘Elastic: Flexible Thinking in a Time of Change’ talks about how we can expand our thinking process, wherein we don’t follow the rules. We can make new rules and we can break the rules. Paradox it maybe, but while we may resist change, we are also attracted towards new challenges and doing new things!

Here are a few ways we can expand our thinking process.

#Get rid of the ‘frozen thinking’ syndrome

‘Frozen thinking’ is all about assuming that what we know, and think is always right. The thoughts have been frozen over time and those assumptions may no longer hold true.

Tip: When approaching a new situation, first and foremost, be aware of your frozen thoughts. Then, learn to let them go. Make space for new thoughts to come in.

#Change your routine

We think in a set way, sit in a set way, do our chores in a set way. To cultivate new ways of thinking, break the pattern.

Tip: Question your beliefs. Search for opinions that are different from you. Listen to diverse views. Assess what makes those thoughts different.

#Pay more attention to your thoughts

Your thoughts are one of the most powerful tools you have with which you can change your life. Thoughts are self-arising and often, we are not conscious of our thoughts.

Tip: Notice your thoughts. Pay attention to what you are thinking. Are you thinking negatively or are your thoughts focused on the good outcomes?

#Let your mind wander

Once you have learnt to focus, turn your attention towards unfocussed thinking. Just let go of your mind and allow it to wander across myriad thoughts!

Tip: Stay away from any sensory stimulation while doing free thinking. Unconstrained thinking comes easy when you are engaged in simple repetitive thoughts.

#Trust yourself

Last but not the least, listen to your heart. Listen to your gut. Learn to trust yourself and your instincts.

Tip: New thoughts that can generate new ideas take time. Do not be harsh on yourself. The whole thought of having new thoughts can be very intimidating. Have faith in your abilities.

Pull together all your experiences. They are unique and can help expand your thinking.

The views and opinions published here belong to the author and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the publisher.

Sarita Bahl

Sarita Bahl is an alumnus of Tata Institute of Social Sciences and the Swedish Institute of Management Program. An experienced and versatile leader, she comes with nearly four decades of professional experience. She has over the years successfully overseen the communications and public affairs function and led the corporate social responsibility strategy for Bayer South Asia, Pfizer, and Monsanto, among others. Sarita has held multiple roles across diverse industries, the public sector, trade associations, MNCs, and the not-for-profit sector. Her areas of interest include advocacy, stakeholder engagement, sustainability, and communications.

As an Associate Certified Coach (ACC) from the International Coaching Federation (ICF) and Senior Practitioner (Mentoring) from the European Council of Mentoring and Coaching (EMCC), Sarita specializes in career transition, inner engineering and life issues. Sarita enjoys writing and is passionate about animals, books, and movies.