Thomas Edison once said, “There are no rules here — we’re trying to accomplish something.” That’s the heart, inspiration, determination and spirit of an inventor speaking. You’re an inventor . . . the inventor of your next breath — your next moment — ones that have never existed, and never will again. What are you ‘free’ to accomplish with these moments? The real answer . . . anything you can imagine.
Rules are the limiting logic of two dimensional attempts to guarantee safety and avoid conflict, but they can also stifle innovation. Innovation and safety don’t always coexist.
Stress will oppose invention to prove the value of rules over the spirit of innovation. Such is the nature of many disciplines that stress the rules over having an experience. Such is the nature of many institutions that have lost touch with their innovative beginnings, like nations, religions, cultures, and ideas. The idea of human societies, and everything that comes with it — including politics and religions — are extensions of the innovation of ‘campfires’. Gatherings took place around these campfires to provide warmth and security; to cook food and extend comfort to the individuals. Gathering together was more efficient than going it alone and rules began as a means of maintaining the purpose of the warmth, security, food and comfort. But rules — once established — are not innovative, and innovation must then reach through the rules — take a moment out beyond the rules — dare to ask the questions that reconsider the value of the rules. If the value no longer exists, then it’s time to shift the rules.
Your life was created to invent and innovate the future, not blindly follow the rules from the past.
Our prayer is that you’re courageous enough to relax the rules; that you’re not here to attack the rules, but you’re also not attached to them; that you’re prepared to compassionately respond to those who question your authority to innovate; that you’re willing to stand alone — away from the comfort of the community campfire if necessary — to innovate a future that produces an invention to serve everyone’s needs . . . not just the rule’s needs.
Guru Singh is a world-renowned yoga instructor, author, musician, and family man. Guru Singh works with the Dalai Lama, teaches with Tony Robbins, and has recorded an album with Grammy® Award-winning artist Seal. He can also be found on Facebook and Twitter.
Check out Guru Singh’s most recent book: Buried Treasures: The Journey From Where You Are to Who You Are.
Image courtesy of Darius Bashar.
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