Outside the Normal by Jordan

Outside the Normal by Jordan - October 2018 Scholarship Essay

Thinking outside the box requires some effort. Today, most people choose not to think outside the box and go for the easy route instead. People who do think outside the box are rare, and they are special because they are risk takers. It is not easy to think outside one's normal thought process because it is "unknown". That scares a lot of people, but in my opinion it is exciting. It gives me the opportunity to explore unfamiliar areas and to learn something. I like to start thinking with the end in mind so that I know my purpose. Opening up my mind to new possibilities stretches me and tests my creative side. I love when people, myself included, think outside our normal because it does good in a community and it inspires others. Our world is in dire need of problem solvers and big thinkers in order to make a difference.
It not only creates opportunities for good, it establishes leaders. Strong leadership is an important quality that most everyone strives to have. But, leadership starts when a person decides to step up and be different; that too, is scary in today's society. Starting out small is how something big happens. People are afraid to stand out and be different from the "normal". If encouraged, thinking outside the box could change someone's life. Personally, it has changed mine. I used to be shy and reserved, but after I stood up and got outside of my box I have never been the same. Thinking outside my box has taught me how to make a difference in my community and school. I have been given so many opportunities that I would never have had if I had not taken the initiative to be creative and different.