In the book 7 Habits of Highly Effective People written by Steve Covey, the author discusses paradigm shift and how it creates a metamorphosis within ourselves. 

Think of something specific that has happened in your life which changed your perspective. Perhaps it was a meaningful lesson learned through a traumatic event or exposure to someone else’s trials and tribulations. Whatever it was, it likely created a shift in the paradigm or pattern of your way of thinking. 

A shift happens when our paradigms change, and we can see things in a different light. Imagine the possibilities if we can be more understanding and open to ideas we may not have considered before! 

New Paradigms Are Discovered

As discussed by Covey, when new paradigms are discovered, life has the capability to improve and expand. Alternatively, some paradigms can hinder us and make our way of life more difficult. New challenges can arise that were previously non-existent simply because we chose to think of a new outlook. 

If one possesses a strong empathy for others, they will likely experience several paradigm shifts in their life. This is because empathetic people understand the feelings of others. Having the ability to “put yourself in someone else’s shoes” allows for a perspective that does not exist if you walk around believing your thoughts and feelings are the only ones that matter. 

Character Ethic vs. Personality Ethic

The concept of the paradigm shift from Character Ethics to Personality Ethics allows us to understand that our character is deep-seated within us and does not change depending on who we are around or what we are doing. Our personality tends to be surface deep, what we show to the outside world. Our personality does not challenge us to do what is right, unlike our character, which is constantly working to align our actions with our values.

To create real change within ourselves, we have to get to the root of our values and beliefs, not simply what our personality portrays to others. Change does not happen quickly, but rather when we change our way of seeing things. It can take lots of time to unsee what we are and unlearn what we’ve been taught. 

Change the Way You View Your Life

Applying the concept of a paradigm shift to being successful in our own endeavors, business and personal, is essential. Perhaps it has to do with collaborating with someone else who will have different insights and experiences. Both parties would benefit from accepting that Aha! moment brought on by a fresh idea or concept from the other. Imagine the success that has been had due to the acceptance of a vision outlined in a new light. The possibilities are endless when we accept new paradigms and allow them to broaden our attitudes and way of thinking. 

If you are interested in learning more about paradigm shifts, pick up a copy of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change by Stephen Covey.

This article is part of our Business Coaching blog series. At Dataczar we talk to a lot of small businesses. We’ve found a few books that we keep recommending time and again. To better help our customers, we’ve added a Reading List for Small Businesses to our website. We encourage every small business owner to read and keep these timeless business books on their office shelf.

 

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