Ben Zander Analysis

Art of Possibility The main topic of the chapter “ It's all invented” from the book “The Art Of Possibility” by Rose and Ben Zander we are only capable of perceiving what our minds have constructed. Furthermore, they go on to make the point that if “It's all invented anyway, so we might as well invent a story or framework of meaning that enhances our quality of life and the life of those around us”(Zander 12). Additionally the chapter gives an example of where assumptions can hinder an individual from exploring all the options available. They present a puzzle that requires us to “join all nine dots with four straight lines, without taking pen from paper. If the puzzle is approached with the assumption that we are confined by staying along the path the dots
create, then we limit our options to solve the seemingly impossible puzzle. Similarly, I have limited myself to certain options due to previously held assumptions. After graduation from high school in 2013, I had jumped into college seemingly prepared for what I was getting into. Unfortunately, due to financial and other external issues I was forced to drop out, which severely affected my grades. In my mind, the only option I perceived was available to me was work full time and give up on education entirely. These thoughts were based on past experiences and believing if I returned to college I would ultimately experience the same results. Even though their were indeed other options, my assumptions prevented me from seeing them. In other words I was attempting to sold the puzzle while remaining inside the boundaries set by the dots. Fortunately, while working my usual 12 hour graveyard shift, I came to realization that I did not want to do this for the remainder of my life.
Instead I focused on changing my way of thinking and suddenly I was able perceive options that I was previously unaware of. I convinced myself that if I could handle working 80 hours a week then maybe school and working part time is a viable option. I rid myself of the previously held assumptions and ultimately returned to school with the intent to work twice as hard to compensate for the damage already done and the opportunity to provide a better future for both me and my daughter. In a symbolic sense, I was able to solve the puzzle by realizing that there are no boundaries only those that I previously assumed were there. Ultimately, it is important to realize that assumptions can prevent us from seeing the options available to us. Otherwise we wont be able to solve obstacles we are faced with, whether it be a puzzle or a setback in life. For example if you don't even attempt to win a race because you believe it is impossible, then it is inevitable that you will fail. On the other hand if you approach it with the intent to win, then at least you stand a
chance.