Ever since I've learnt about "structure", I've been a bit obsessed with developing it. The best definition I've found on structure is "the ability to go from point A to B, meaning to carry out elaborate tasks, manage complex situations, solve problems, and organise."
It's a mixed bag of different points but the underlying principle is having a know-how to deal with over-the-top situations life throws at you without having to chicken out or press the pause button incessantly.
I think "structure" as defined above is an archetypal view/definition of "a structure", as in the structure of a physical building or the physical structure of a person. Essentially, structure gives shape to things and holds them together.
The reason I've been a bit obsessed with it is because I think structure is a core tool to have if I want to really thrive in this modern era.
Threshold Of Limitations
I realized some time ago that life generally wouldn't get easier as we grow older, despite us becoming wiser or making a lot of progress to precisely make life easier.
And unless we find a way to rise above or expand beyond this "threshold of limitation", then we may just be likened to iced butter that constantly melts under the hot sun, this is more relevant from a mental/emotional framework, although it always filters down and affects the physical.
A threshold of limitation is the average amount of tension a person can receive by default before their body and mind start shutting down.
For example, the body can only handle a certain amount of physical stress before it starts breaking down, and the mind really doesn't function well when it's constantly overwhelmed by emotional or cognitive demands.
At first, how to develop structure was as elusive to me as trying to catch the wind. I didn't have any framework on how to go about it or even where to start.
I remember giving a brief outline to a friend on how important structure is necessary to cultivate, and I could sense him zoning out of the topic.
He probably thought I was discussing complex mathematics, part of the reason could be that structure is one of those things that is easier to recognize but really hard to describe.
What Can We Not Learn From Nature?
Eventually, I resorted to first observe this grand laboratory we call Nature. I mean, Nature is a laboratory in the sense that chemical (and alchemical) processes are constantly taking place in its bosom.
Studying the inherent structures and systems found in nature, I've been able to glean insights into how to build a robust and adaptable replica of nature's structure(s) for my own life.
For example, the way a tree grows, with a sturdy trunk and branches that can sway with the wind, yet remain grounded and resilient, has taught me the value of flexibility and stability amidst passing change. We need not have to resist the winds of change or relinquish control while going through such situations.
Frankly, the metamorphosis of a caterpillar into a butterfly is really really inspiring(and a bit bewildering) to observe, which I've witnessed a few times.
It teaches you that transformations can be a bittersweet process, and it all depends on which part you want to focus on. Sweet or bitter?
Growing A Seed
Through looking to nature as a guide, I've been able to develop a seed framework for cultivating the kind of structure that will help me thrive in this ever-changing seemingly crazy modern world.
It's an ongoing process, not an easy path(which is good), but it's one that I'm deeply committed to exploring.
Beyond a core tool for thriving in the modern era, I believe that mastering the art of creative structure is an important key..... A key to what? That I'm not really sure, yet.
Thanks for reading!! Share your thoughts below on the comments.