Metaphors

Metaphor: "A figure of speech in which a word or phrase which ordinarily designates one thing is used to designate another, thus making an implicit comparison."

Dictionary definitions really can't give you an idea of the power of some concepts, can they? Metaphors are one of the most powerful ways to expand your thinking, increase your brainpower, and even alter your life.

Here is a question for you: What is a belief? Is it a "truth," or a "program," a "theory," or a "tool?" It can be all of these things, of course, but which metaphor you choose can totally alter your perspective.

For example, when a belief is seen as a "truth," it is usually something that you want to hang onto. You wouldn't want to base your thinking, your decisions, or your actions on non-truths, or "lies," right?

A "tool," on the other hand, is something you use for a given purpose. Then, when you need a different tool, you drop the one you have and pick up another that works better. This is a radically different view of beliefs, isn't it?

How many metaphors are there for belief? There are many possibilities. The metaphor "programs," like those in computers, would be similar to "tools," due to their disposability - you replace programs when better ones come along. This might also suggest other things, like the "corruptibility" of programs.

Beliefs can be seen as certainties, theories, bridges, or even cages. Beliefs could be components of one's identity: "I am the one who believes this." Each and every metaphor gives you a different perspective, and potentially new insights.

Test Your Metaphors

Metaphors can be tested intellectually, to see where they might lead. But why not also test them in reality, to see which are more useful? This is how you play with metaphors in order to expand your thinking and improve your life.

Here is one of my favorite examples: Some people see being an employee as being a "slave." It isn't a very motivating or encouraging metaphor, since slaves have few options, and are forced to do things. What other metaphors are there? We could use "partner". A partner commands or demands more respect as an integral part of the business. How about an "actor". He or she is temporarily playing a role, and knows that it will come to an end.

I always saw being an employee as being a businessman. What was my business? Simply selling my labor. This meant that my choices were wide open. I could look for new and better "customers" - and I did. Also, since neither I nor my "customer" (employer) owed anything to the other except what was agreed upon, I never felt bitter or taken advantage of. Seeing through the lens of this metaphor also lead me to start this internet business, so I haven't had to sell my labor for years now.

One's success in life is determined in part by how many ways one can look at things - more ways equals more creative possibilities. Thinking of and using new metaphors means more ways, so look far and wide to find different metaphors for everything around you. It's not only good for your brainpower, but also a way to discover better ways to live.