Ken_McLaughlin_The Art of Possibilities

The Art of Possibilities. By Benjamin Zander and Stone Zander.

The over-arching concepts presented and the questions asked at the end of each chapter allows one to think outside of the box and welcome the Art of Possibilities. I like how the authors used several examples of historical artists as Picasso and Michelangelo as the had the ability to expand their thinking and create work.

Chapter 1. It’s All Invented:
The interesting fact was how one’s mind naturally attempts to put a story together, even if some of the points to the story are missing. Where as the example of the puzzle on how to solve the nine-dot square and how our minds attempt to organize, define, and confine what we perceive to be possible. I was aware of this mind tease, and it is a great example of open-mindedness used to solve a thinking problem. The chapter ends with a three-part question that allows one to reflect and think outside of the box:
“What assumptions an I making, that I am not aware I am making, that gives me what I see? Once it is answered… then ask: What might I now invent, that I have not invented, and that would give me other choices?

Chapter 2. Stepping into a Universe of Possibility:
This chapter speaks on how most of us (I would add in the western world) live in a world of measurements and by comparing and contrasting things against each other. Where as it is suggested that in the Universe of Possibilities this ‘stretches beyond the world of management to include all words: infinite, generative, and abundant...To set the context and let life unfold.’ The chapter ends with the questions:
‘How are my thoughts and actions, in this moment, reflections of the measurement world?’ The use of the word ‘how’ allows for an inquiry into possibilities. And then the second question, ‘How are my thoughts and actions, in this new movement, a reflection of the measurement world? And how now?’

Chapter 3. Giving an A: Giving Yourself an A.
By giving yourself and others the mental concept of grade of an ‘A’, the Art of Possibilities suggests that the transformation of interacting with others from a place of respect and to allow others to visualize and realize themselves. I like the quote “ This ‘A’ is not an expectation to live up to, but a possibility to live into.” The authors are clear not to be blind to one’s accomplishment and that standards of mastery can allow one to move up to be considered competent in any given field.

Lastly, in Benjamin Zander’s video of his talk at TED discussed the state of classical music, and how people perceive this genre as a dying entity or one that will continue to grow. I liked the comparison of the people interacting with classical music as second hand smoke, as something there. Personally, I like classical music; I am not too familiar with it however I enjoy the overall calmness that allows me to automatically feel. I enjoyed Zander’s introduction to the study of classical music and how through the proper practice and awareness to the scales and notes of music, one can naturally connect to the tension created between the notes and eventually predict what note ought to come next within a song.