Do Something Different To See Something Different

“Then He brought him outside and said, “Look now toward heaven, and count the stars if you are able to number them.” …” Genesis 15:5 NKJV

My parents always ensured we were engaged in some kind of activity inside the house before stepping out. Whether it was a book to read, a drawing to trace, a chore to do or a school assignment to complete, idleness was out of the question. On the other hand, we always wanted to play outside.

We could play football with the boys on the street. We could climb trees on the small farm outside. We could ride our bicycles in the neighbourhood. It was always a different experience.

“Outside” could be where the fun is or where the danger is. It could be where newness is or where filth resides. It could be the source of original ideas or where self-confidence gets squashed. But in basic terms, “outside” is where you access what’s impossible to access “inside”.

Many times, I find myself stuck in routines day in and day out without the time to think and reflect. So, whenever I need to do some personal awareness exercises, I move outside my day-to-day routine. I could dedicate a day or two to just reflecting and making important decisions. It is impossible to merge it with the normal lifestyle.

When I had a growth KPI to hit, I had to move outside my regular network to access the new ones that will help me meet the target. When I needed to restructure my business, I couldn’t do it from the inside. I had to step out of it to do what was needed.

What does “outside” mean for you? The vision you seek might require that you travel a few miles or just reach out to someone new. The solution you earnestly desire might be outside your current relationships. The paradigm shift you need may be outside your everyday experiences. The growth you need might be outside your comfort zone.

Abram (before his name changed to Abraham) was called to step outside to see the stars which stood as an analogy to the vision God wanted to show him. That would not have been possible inside with his family, servants and animals. Some sort of separation was needed.

What’s that different action you need to take so you can access that different solution you seek? Don’t think you’ll get everything inside what you’re used to. You may just need to step outside.