TCFBO #050: Sitting With The Tension

Read Time: 2 minutes

Creative Tension is a concept we were introduced to in Robert Fritz’s book "The Path of Least Resistance”.

In essence, different degrees of tension occur throughout our lives and this tension often shows up as a feeling of discomfort.

And when it occurs, we all seek ways in which to resolve it.

The more we can just sit with this tension as it occurs, rather than immediately seeking a way to resolve it, the greater the amount of tension we will be able to handle and the greater our creations will be.

If we can only handle a small amount of tension, we will quit moving towards our vision at the slightest amount of discomfort or the smallest challenge.

Whereas, if we have learnt to sit with a large amount of tension no matter the degree of discomfort then we will remain focused on taking action towards our vision in the face of what other people may view as insurmountable problems.

So we have a choice.

We can resolve the tension over a period of time by working diligently towards creating our vision.

Or we can choose to resolve the tension instantly, by saying something like “I can’t do that”.

Or we can temporarily resolve our tension by distracting ourselves, maybe through vices, or perhaps with something we’re more comfortable with, like tidying our desk or checking our email…something that keeps us busy and away from focusing on our vision.

So if you are up for the challenge of harnessing the force of creative tension within your business, here are three practical ways to do so…

1. Set clear, challenging goals that are in alignment with what you’d love to create

Setting clear and challenging goals that push you beyond your comfort zone will create tension.

They’ll stretch the capabilities of your business and create a natural drive within your team.

Just ensure the goals are fully aligned with your vision.

Because if your goals are not aligned with your vision, or your vision is not aligned with your heart, you’ll create tension but not the creative tension that will propel you towards your dreams.

2. Regularly communicate your vision and progress.

Keep everyone in the loop about how the business is progressing towards its goals.

And keep relating those goals back to your vision.

When you and your team can see where you are today in comparison to where you started and where you’re aiming for, you’ll maintain the creative tension.

Whereas, if you forget about your goals and vision, the tension will disappear as you just get comfortable with what you’re currently doing.

3. Encourage innovation and risk-taking.

Creative tension thrives where new ideas are welcome and taking calculated risks is encouraged.

So look to create a culture where you and your team feel safe to experiment and innovate.

Learning from your failures is just as valuable as celebrating your successes, and any failures can end up creating even greater tension that moves you forward.

If you do decide to embrace creative tension it can transform the way you see challenges and opportunities and enable you to push your business towards greater innovation and success.

But remember, the outcomes you create will be in direct proportion to the amount of creative tension you can handle.

So learn to handle a lot of creative tension and watch the outcomes you truly desire come to fruition.

Let us know how you get on and we’ll see you next week.

Paul & Philly

Whenever you’re ready, there are three ways we can help you:

1. Grab a copy of Paul’s book “Backwards Planning - A Simple Method to Move You and Your Business Forward” and discover how to reverse engineer a life and business you truly love.

2. Book a facilitated “Life Vision Session” today and start creating a life and business that are fully aligned with your heart’s desires. We’ll arrange a pre-session call with you to say “Hi”, explain how the Life Vision Session works and answer any questions you may have.

3. Apply to join “The Clear Focus Business Academy” and ensure your business is the most effective it can be at providing the money and lifestyle you desire. Simply drop us an email or contact us here to tell us you’re interested and we’ll send you more info.