Some people refer to it as the 2% mindset. It refers to the minority of people who choose to chase their dreams, take risks and perhaps, in the process, change their lives.
The 2% Mindset Problem
Why do I say it’s a problem? Well, in and of itself it isn’t, but I’ve read material pitched in such a way that suggests most of us (the other 98%) live a life that’s basically dull, mundane and predictable. The irony, to my mind at least, is that the very people who churn out such comments are probably huddled over their laptop, maybe in some bedroom or cafe, thinking or believing that they are somehow different. The 2% v 98% mindset issue may sound catchy, but it’s also something of a false dichotomy.
Perspectives
For many people change is a scary concept. Then again, a lot depends on the starting point and the amount of change we have in mind. If you’re lucky enough to be born into a position where life presents you with a number of opportunities, then it’s easy to see why someone less fortunate might wonder what you have to complain about. To a person born into abject poverty, their dream may be your nightmare.
The idea of going to work every day and returning to a comfortable, dry, safe environment may sound like a life of monotony, but there are those who might, quite literally, give a limb to have the security of a regular income and to live in a place where they feel safe, can eat regularly, dress nicely and have some cash to spend.
So, the 2% mindset problem really is about perspective. But, for ease, let’s assume you’re one of the lucky one’s. Chances are if you’re reading this, you’re probably in the ‘lucky’ category, even if it doesn’t feel that way. If you’re unhappy with your life there could be any number of reasons, but some of the most common reasons are due to a feeling of every day feeling the same and with no particular likelihood of change for the future.
Comfort Zones
The 2% mindset problem is really about the 98% comfort zone problem. That is, the more realistic chance that you’re doing very similar things to other people. As a result, you feel secure and comfortable, but with this comes a trade-off. The downside of a comfortable and predictable life is a sense of daily drudge, lack of sparkle, and playing it safe for fear of taking risks. We peek at alternatives by reading books, watching movies, listening to the radio and getting immersed in hobbies and interests.
Alternatives
There are, of course, alternatives. A small proportion of the population (the 2%) seek these alternatives out. They shoot for the stars, they follow their dreams, explore new things that perhaps involves a life of travel in their quest for fulfilment and happiness. Embracing new things, exploring new ideas, pushing through personal anxieties and fears is all part of the process.
How is this achieved?
The answer to this goes back to your starting point. It’s also an intensely personal thing. My dreams are going to be quite different to yours. Whereas your dream might be to travel the world and be unencumbered by worldly possessions, mine might be to give up work and write the novel I’ve had in my head for the past ten years. In each of these examples, both people want to get the most out of life, but in very different ways.
Is there a Compromise?
Compromise is what it’s all about. The 2% mindset problem is based on fear. It’s frequently said that it’s fear that holds people back from fulfilling their dreams. Well, that may be part of the story, but frequently it isn’t just about us. Nobody wants a life of regret but we all make decisions along the way that affect us and other people.
The so-called midlife crisis, that time when life feels unfulfilled, and the weight of anxieties from responsibilities can feel burdensome, is a very real thing for some people. But, packing a case and leaving behind a family is hardly realistic for most people. For one thing, it’s an entirely selfish act, for another, they simply may not want to. Commitment, love, responsibility, duty, call it what you will, these things combine in a powerful way to shape what we do.
I have a feeling that most adults are perfectly aware of the fact that they could do other things. If the force is strong enough, I’m also pretty sure they’ll up and do it. For the rest of us, we try to find ways to tap into those ‘alternative’ lifestyles, whilst at the same time staying grounded. It’s why we take annual vacations to faraway places or go bungee jumping, or buy a motorcycle, take up art, write poetry and so on.
Psychologist Sonja Lyubomirsky describes happiness as “the experience of joy, contentment, or positive well-being, combined with a sense that one’s life is good, meaningful, and worthwhile.” I’m not aware of anyone who can claim they feel this way consistently, but most of us know what happiness means to us.
The things that made us happy as children, changed when we grew up and they continue to change. Life is a process. Our dreams change and adapt as we go along. Some we attain, others remain distant and some may be unfulfilled, but it doesn’t have to mean that life is unfulfilling or that we’re unhappy. So, don’t view the 2% mindset problem as a problem. If being one of the 98% works for you – as it appears to for most people – then there’s nothing to worry about.