Robinson states that natural aptitude combined with a passion for a certain subject is the key to realising potential. He believes that each and every person has a particular talent that may or may not have been uncovered. Those that have never realised what their true gifts are may not have had the self-belief or been given the encouragement needed to cultivate them. So how do people find their ‘Element’? Robinson makes these suggestions:
- Write a list of what you are good at;
- Think about what you are naturally good at even though it may have been a long time since you have done it;
- What are you drawn to?
- Make a point of doing it;
- Connect with other people who share your passion;
- Doing so will enthuse you and allow you to see what you are doing is important; and
- If you didn’t have to worry about making a living or what others thought of you, what would you be drawn to do?
The Connections between The Element, Personal Legend and Follow Your Bliss
The sentiments expressed by Ken Robinson in his book align with those of American Mythologist Joseph Campbell and Brazilian writer Paulo Coelho.
Campbell coined the phrase "Follow your bliss" whilst Coelho calls the same notion by the name of "Personal Legend." "The Element," named by Robinson is the same thing. It means following the path that fills one’s self with the most enthusiasm.
In The Zone – Finding Bliss
Bliss is the element and personal legend is also inner truth and instinct. But Robinson also suggests that there may be more than one element for each person. There are different pathways that one person can take to reach that place of fulfillment and bliss. Robinson refers to this as being in "the zone." There are a list of features to determine when a person has reached the state of being in "the zone."
- A person will feel a sense of freedom and authenticity, like feeling connected to their true sense of self.
- A person may feel they are doing what they are meant to be doing and being who they were meant to be.
- Time feels different – it moves more quickly and fluidly.
- There is a movement to a ‘meta-state’ where ideas come more quickly.
It is a case of being observant of the self and of the activities that each person feels consumed by. The world and it's people continually move at speed all around. But if a person is in "the zone," they may not be aware of what is happening out with their focus.
Discovering the Element
Robinson emphasizes the fact that even when someone does find their element and what puts them in "the zone", there will still be frustrations associated with it. There are still practical and technical issues that may be involved within an individuals chosen field.
But he assures, that listening and following the pointers he suggests will open people up to a world in which dreams and reality merge. The starting point is simple; take a pen and pad and begin to write about all the things in life that feel good, are enjoyable and those which come naturally. Don't worry what other people think, then start doing it!
Sources:
Robinson, Ken & Aronica, Lou, The Element, How Finding Your Passion Changes Everything: Penguin Books, London, 2009.
Jane Alexandra Cormack - Jane currently works as a director and facilitator of her own company, Rhythm In Colour. These workshops connect women through creativity ...
Join the Conversation