The Art of Possibility: 8 key ideas
The core ideas of The Art of Possibility, each in under a minute, written in our own words. Want the full depth? Get the book.
- IDEA 1 OF 8
Our limits are often invented
Rosamund Stone Zander, a therapist, and Benjamin Zander, an orchestra conductor, argue that many of the limits we feel are stories we have invented.
Recognising that it's all invented opens space for new possibilities.
- IDEA 2 OF 8
Step out of scarcity
The authors contrast a world of measurement, focused on scarcity and competition, with a universe of possibility.
Shifting viewpoint changes what seems possible. Seeing a situation as full of possibility opens up choices that fear of not having enough hides.
- IDEA 3 OF 8
Give people an A
Benjamin Zander describes giving his music students an A at the start of the year, asking them to write a letter explaining why they earned it.
Expecting the best freed them to take risks.
- IDEA 4 OF 8
Be a contribution
The authors suggest seeing yourself as a contribution to others, rather than judging success by comparison.
This shifts focus from fear to giving. When you stop comparing, you can give freely and enjoy other people's success.
- IDEA 5 OF 8
Lead from any chair
Zander describes how a conductor can draw leadership from every player, not just the conductor.
Anyone can lead from their own position. The conductor makes music by helping others shine, and any person in any role can do the same.
- IDEA 6 OF 8
Don't take yourself so seriously
The authors describe rule number 6: don't take yourself so seriously.
Humour reduces ego and stress. When we laugh at our own mistakes, we relax and think more clearly. A lighter mood also makes it easier for others to work with us.
- IDEA 7 OF 8
Accept the way things are
The authors suggest accepting reality as it is, without resistance, as a starting point for change.
Acceptance frees energy. Fighting what has already happened wastes energy that could be used to decide the next step.
- IDEA 8 OF 8
Light a spark
The authors encourage enrolling others in possibility by sharing enthusiasm.
Passion is contagious. When you speak about what excites you, others catch that energy and want to join in. People are moved less by arguments than by real enthusiasm.
Get one idea like this every daySwipe through ideas, go deeper on any of them, and save the ones that matter. Free.
Read The Art of Possibility in the app