(This article builds on the Creative Exchange principle of the Philosophy of Creativity)
Imagine two sides locked in conflict. Maybe it's a disagreement between friends, a battle in the boardroom, or even a war between nations. Each side sees the other as the enemy, convinced they're right and the other side is wrong.
Picture this: Instead of focusing on who's right, what if we shifted our attention to the space between the two sides? This isn't about ignoring the conflict, but about finding a way to step back and see the bigger picture. It's about understanding that the truth isn't always a clear-cut, black-and-white thing. Sometimes, it's messy and complicated, and it lives in that space between two, seemingly opposing, viewpoints.
Think of it like those optical illusions where you can see two different images depending on how you look at it. There's not one right answer – both pictures are there, and it's up to you to decide which one you want to focus on.
This is where the concept of the "zero state" comes in. It's about letting go of our need to be right, and instead opening ourselves up to the possibility that there's more to the story than we can see from our own limited perspective. It's about embracing the unknown, the mysterious space where truth is waiting to be discovered.
Of course, we can't stay in that "zero state" forever. There's a time for action, for making decisions, and for finding practical solutions. That's where the "one state" comes in – it's about using our logic and problem-solving skills to navigate the world around us.
But here's the key: we need both states to find lasting peace and understanding. We need that open, curious "zero state" to connect with others on a deeper level, and we need that focused, decisive "one state" to make things happen.
It's not always easy to move between these two states. Sometimes our egos get in the way, or we get stuck in old patterns of thinking. But with practice, it becomes easier to approach conflict from this more holistic perspective.
So, the next time you find yourself in a disagreement, try this: Instead of digging in your heels and trying to prove you're right, take a step back. Enter the "zero state." Ask yourself, "What am I missing here? Is there another way to look at this?"
You might be surprised by what you discover.
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