Friday, August 17, 2012

Week3 Response to Angelo

I sort of envy that you have this reaction to The Art of Possibility. It's not that I don't like it, but I sort of want to experience the "ocean of pictures". Oh well - I guess its just not my kind of book.
I agree with you though - its a cool read and while most of the advice or plan seems to be largely common sense, there were a few parts that were quite entertaining. I really liked chapter 6 and I agree - it was pretty hysterical.
I suppose when I'm reading it I tend to think of all the stories I could tell. Maybe that's my individual ocean of pictures! Great post as always Alf!


Alf's Original Post:
One of the biggest takeaways from reading this particular book is that I have never seen myself so enthusiastic about diving in. Let me reiterate that the “Art of Possibility” by Benjamin and Rosamund Zander is one of those books that you cannot put down; it is a brilliantly refreshing account of the lessons and stories about enjoying life to the fullest. I really like the format of the writing so far because when I read I don’t see words, rather I see an ocean of pictures before me–every chapter is filled with paintings of concepts that I truly understand and appreciate, because the lessons are so applicable in my own life.
Allow me to give a brief summary of each chapter (5-8). Chapter 5 is about stepping down and letting others lead. I have heard it said a lot from teachers that it a humbling and genuine experience when the students teach the teachers. Chapter 6 teaches us to lighten up using Rule Number 6 (hilarious. Chapter 7 is about being present to the way things are so that we can have clarity on the next step we should take. Chapter 8 is about giving way to passion, that is to let go of restraint and participate fully. Benjamin Zander, in one of his anecdotes, referred to this as going “Beyond the F*ck It”. I also learned from these chapters the difference between the calculating vs. central self. I am now striving to be more in contact with the latter because I can see how much good it does for me and for everyone else around me.
Image courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos.net

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