Admittedly, this is one of my favorite phrases, basically because of what it is stating. However, one could make a case that it is only a glammed up phrase meaning change, which is not too far off the mark. It is… but it conveys so much more than an awareness of change and all that word conveys. Paradigm shift is an action word based on a decision. One doesn’t simply fall into a paradigm shift, one embraces and undertakes it. Honestly… it takes courage to decide to make a shift and further courage to act on it.
Paradigm shifting is not for the weak-heart. As I said – it takes courage. It boldly proclaims that what was no longer relates to what is and thus, requires a new (out of the box?) approach. It really invites speculation – which is typically negatively defined – in order to test if or how the new responds proactively to the what-is-or-has-been. It may require a re-consideration of a previously discarded response as well as entertaining a completely different one. I would caution a substitution for what is simply for substitution sake – you should know what you are discarding, what you are now accepting… and WHY.
Even the ‘process’ of change is a new learning. Paradigm shifting can provide you with considerable learning opportunities in a variety of areas. Each situation that can be improved upon or that offers the option of a new response can be that invitation to a new learning. As you interact in the situation and as you ‘stand back’ and observe the interactions, emerging issues, etc.; you have the opportunity to learn, to grow. One example, for me, is that when I do discover this situation and do learn and grow, I have the responsibility to teach this ‘new’. Why? Because I also believe in refinements and in the sharing, teaching you can discover other options and possibilities to the shift. My ‘why’ may be the basis to follow the rabbit trail… or it may cause me to rethink. Regardless – this is an opportunity – in the moment.
One conclusion I’ve reached is that Paradigm Shifters often are loners. Not certain that there’s any option because when you look at the definition you can see that people pleasing really isn’t an associated quality. It’s not that there is an intention to be obstreperous or un-compliant; it’s merely that they do hear a different drummer and follow where that may lead. And yet, one should never change for the sake of changing nor be controlled by the status quo. The status quo can be a springboard to new thinking – not necessarily discarding the old but still embracing the paradigm shift.
