Freeing Yourself From Your Cage Like Mind by Mandy

Freeing Yourself From Your Cage Like Mind by Mandy - October 2018 Scholarship Essay

“Those who do not think outside the box are easily contained.” This quote, by Nicolas Manetta, has changed my view on life. I always assumed my own thoughts were the most important in solving problems. I never thought that putting myself in others’ shoes or changing my views on certain topics would guide me in ways I never imagined before. I believe thinking outside the box means you are freeing yourself from your cage like mind. You are then able to experience life from a variety of new perspectives.

For my whole life I always thought of my mind as a tool or resource. I never thought of my mind as a cage. In a way this is liberating, as it makes me realize that I can view people, problems, and even the world in different perspectives. This itself amazes me. Your mind is like a cage because when you are uncomfortable or scared you run into it. When something new comes across you jump back into your own beliefs. Instead, you can think outside the box and be open minded of other outlooks. Also, thinking outside the box relates to being respectful. For example, if you do not agree with someone else’s action then you can put yourself in their shoes and try to understand why they chose that decision. This will allow you to learn to distance yourself from your ingrained beliefs and ideas. As a whole, I believe thinking outside the box means freeing yourself from relying only on your mind and instead understanding other views as well.