Everything we recognize has a set of descriptions that surround it and give it meaning. For example, a ‘tree’ has leaves, branches, trunk, roots, bark and more. These words, and the objects they refer to, are a personalized set of information that help us recognize it as a ‘tree’. We can represent this with a new visualization tool called a WordPrint©.
WordPrints
A WordPrint is a written, fill-in-the-blank type, one page exercise that takes just a few minutes to complete. It starts in the center with an object, idea or goal; then we write simple descriptions to support its meaning. As words are added, the integrated view emerges. WordPrints show that all things are built from other things. By being aware of the whole and its parts simultaneously, we see the bigger picture. Our thinking balances facts with flexibility and we see new things. WordPrints trigger insight, innovation, expansion and invention.
Divide and Conquer
In computer science, a set of instructions called algorithms are used. A Divide and Conquer Algorithm breaks bigger problems down into smaller ones, making them easier to solve. WordPrints do a similar thing, but in reality. Smaller bits make situations more manageable; less overwhelming and easier to understand. By using a WordPrint you can divide a project, vision or goal into parts, define those pieces and reassemble them in a more clarified, less problematic whole. WordPrints were initially created as a tool for personal growth, but because of their simplicity their applications extend to all fields. You can download a WordPrint worksheet for free at www.teachselfawareness.com/wpsheet. Here are a few ways you might make use of a WordPrint this week-
Identify and Refine Life Roles
If we break our life into different roles we can get a clear picture of where, why and how we allocate our time. This lets us find what’s working well, shift resources or mend spots that need attention. In no time we can identify precise changes that will transform our life for the better.
Have Fun with the Family
WordPrints are a fun game. It’s a linguistic puzzle that draws on our abilities to observe, acknowledge, symbolize, imagine and think. This creates a space for children and adults to take risks and express themselves in a group. It widens language. As you pick objects in your environment, list your descriptors and share them. Discussions will range from silly to serious and everything in between. As similarities and differences emerge, the diversity of views brings new perspectives to your family and you.
Transform Personal Beliefs
What are we holding to be true about things? Are some ideas outdated? We can label core concepts, explore them and adjust what’s working well and what might need replacement. Renewal is wellness. Change is growth. WordPrints are roadmaps for an expanded horizon.
Reclaim Emotional Power
What’s in your emotional bank account? Which moods and feelings do you want more of? Do a WordPrint around your emotional database so you can flesh out activities, ideas and interactions that embody them. Emotional insight reveals opportunities to save, invest and grow emotional energy.
Work Related
WordPrints can be used for recreation or productivity in the workplace. Break the tension among employees with a lighthearted WordPrint game. Bringing a bit of fun to the job goes a long way to increase employee morale. For a more serious application, apply WordPrints to company product or development. Watch your group perceive issues more clearly as they work together to generate an integrated vision of solutions. If two heads are better than one, imagine three, five or twenty. It’s the unity of a group’s individual diversity that often defines a company, brings ingenuity and results in success.
Anyway you look at it, WordPrints help you see more than meets the eye. Enjoy your vision. Enjoy your self. Enjoy the world. Download your free WordPrint worksheet online at www.teachselfawareness.com/wpsheet