Two words can open up a world of possibility for us – ‘Why Not?’

Our thinking has a pattern. Conditioned by our past, limited by our known resources and constraints, and aware of our strengths, we make life decisions. Guided by safety, staying in our comfort zone and treading a path we know, or are confident of, become our filter. Often the initial assessment of whether something is possible or not, becomes our final decision.

Breakthroughs in our life come when we dare to ask the question – ‘Why Not?’. We allow ourselves to move away from conventional thinking to exploring different dimensions. We approach a different idea with belief and confidence, not fear and doubt. We allow ourselves to be led into the world of the unknown, knowing very well we could fail, or could have a life changing experience.

It doesn’t mean we chase every thought we get. Of course we must apply our mind. But it also means we don’t just chase thoughts that are easy and comfortable.

I remember when several years ago, my older son still in school, asked me if we could go to see the Formula One race in Noida. My instinctive thought was to say no. The event was six days away, tickets would be expensive, I was very busy with work and would have to organise travel and accommodation. And to top it all I was not at all interested in F1 racing. It wasn’t anything I wanted to do. I just looked at him and said, much to my own surprise – ‘Why Not?’

For the four of us it was one of the most memorable trips. We made a weekend of it showing the boys Delhi, and even though I’m not sure how much we enjoyed or understood the race, it was an experience we will probably never forget.

I learnt a big lesson then. Life is not just a journey, it is an exploration. It is not the security of safety but the spirit of adventure that will open up, not just experiences for us, but open up our minds to a completely new way of thinking and living.

Opportunities in life will keep knocking at our door. And we can only open the door of our mind when we are willing to ask the question – ‘Why Not?’

( Picture – Canadian Rockies )