The Art of Possibility

What is really possible and how much can we accomplish? In this interesting book, The Art of Possibility, Rosamund and Benjamin Zander share and explain how anything is truly possible—stating “much more is possible than people truly think.” Painting a unique picture of life as an arena of possibilities rather than a cell of impossibilities helps us experience life to its fullest, allowing us to learn and appreciate both the good and the bad.

Much impossibility we believe is simply not true, because it is based on how we’ve been taught to view the world and think. Too many times we accept rules, limitations, and norms that in reality are made up by man and do not exist. Yet, we let these limitations control our attitudes and actions. Learning to think and view our world differently will allow us to accomplish much more, while truly enjoying it. The authors of this book explain different strategies on how to think and react differently to life and its challenges and triumphs to discover what is actually possible.

One example of how this book encourages people to think differently than normal is by viewing each mistake and misfortune in life as an event that is “fascinating” and that can teach us a great lesson. Having a positive outlook on life and its challenges changes our perception on what is possible.

Another example is the authors encourage us to view and treat everyone as an “A student” the moment we meet them—giving everyone full credit and the possibility to exceed before we think less of them. Often times we label others or ourselves as B or C students and that often leads them or us to act the part. This book challenges us to realize that treating everyone and ourselves like “A” students encourages us and others to act like one—bringing out the best in everyone. As the authors ask, "How much greatness are we willing to grant people?"

Likewise, the book encourages us to use Rule #6 at all times which is to not take ourselves too seriously. Life is to learn and to grow, and being too serious can ruin our outlook on life. Other unique outlooks on life are empowering ourselves by taking responsibility for all mistakes and all unfortunate events that occur in our life, as well as utilizing the power of “we” to encourage collaboration and inclusion to maximize results in all situations.

This is just some of the many strategies this book identifies to realizing all the possibility that surrounds us. Additionally, the book is also full of touching stories and notes that will inspire anyone who reads them. By reading this book, you will learn that Possibility truly is an Art as explained in detail in this book. Learn and believe in what's possible and then act is my challenge to us all.