Thinking Outside the Box: Why Complex Challenges Aren't Too Big to Tackle

A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step... Lao Tzu

PERSPECTIVE

Mark Boatwright-Frost

11/1/20242 min read

toddler's standing in front of beige concrete stair
toddler's standing in front of beige concrete stair

Breaking the Myths of Expertise

We often find ourselves in a society that thrives on labels and boxes. Ever since we were kids, we’ve been 'educated' to believe that everything imaginable has already been invented, analyzed, and understood. But what if I told you that this is, in fact, a myth? The notion that someone out there holds all the answers can limit our curiosity and stifle innovation.

The Limiting Nature of Labels

When we categorize challenges as either simple or too complex, we inadvertently restrict our willingness to engage with them. This 'too big' mentality creates a wall, making us feel powerless against the tasks that seem monumental. For instance, climate change, poverty, and societal inequality often fall into this category. We shy away from confronting these issues because we believe they are beyond our reach. However, by accepting that some subjects are simply too vast, we deprive ourselves of the opportunity to explore solutions.

Becoming the Change We Need

The most critical outcome of this limiting mindset isn't merely that we shy away from complexity; it's that we thoroughly miss the chance to enact change. Every great innovation starts with someone who dared to challenge the status quo. They didn’t allow the size of an obstacle to deter them. Instead, they deconstructed that 'big' problem into smaller, more manageable components. By doing this, they opened the door to new ideas and perspectives that can reshape our future.

Let’s get real—innovation doesn’t happen in a bubble. Start viewing complexities as invitations for exploration and growth. By addressing the overwhelming broadness of issues like sustainable energy or equitable healthcare, we can break them down. Invite others to share their thoughts, brainstorm together, and advocate for change in your community. Your voice can inspire action!

Curiosity Over Compliance

To tackle the 'too big' phenomena, we must nurture a culture of curiosity. Rather than accepting that someone else has it figured out, let's actively question and seek out new knowledge. Engage with various viewpoints, learn about topics you know little about, and encourage dialogue among diverse groups of people. This is how we can diversify our understanding and embrace the complexities of the world.

In the end, it’s essential to realize that no problem is too big to attempt. Our collective journey lies in collaboration and open-mindedness. So the next time you feel that something is too monumental, remember, every massive achievement started with a single step. Let’s step out of our boxes and tackle the future with creativity and resolve!

Something big is coming soon!

It would be a good idea to read these blogs before it releases, perspective will be important!

Thoughts on a human future... ~Mark Boatwright-Frost