(Principles are basic truths that, when applied, cause success to come to you easier and quicker.)

 

Do you enjoy being right? Most people do. Smart, clever, feel like a winner, special — all are benefits of being right. But when you hold a paradox, you can’t be right. A paradox is about something else.

F. Scott Fitzgerald wrote, “The test of first-rate intelligence is the ability to hold opposed ideas in mind at the same time and still retain the ability to function.” A paradox is two seemingly contradictory views, each of which are right. When you hold the paradox, truth emerges.

Facing a paradox causes tension because paradoxes are not problems to be solved. A paradox is simply to be lived with until the truth it has to teach you becomes clear.

Examples: – Learning increases ignorance. – Saying no is saying yes. – Playing it safe is dangerous. – As less is more, nothing is everything. – Only beginners can be masters.

Each of these have a truth embedded. A paradox will test your willingness and ability to be open to change and growth.

 

Coaching Point: Do you have the reserve to be able to live with the lack of (initial) clarity that a paradox causes?

 

Copyright 2009 Steve Straus. All rights reserved.