Typically, we are so molded in our habits and nature that it is almost predictable how we will behave in certain situations. How and when we get angry, how we are pleased, what we like, and what we dislike are set in a pattern. This fixed behavior sometimes not only limits our choices but also compels us to act in a certain manner.

It may sound strange, but this habit of being ourselves curtails us from having new experiences. It limits our choices of behavior and thus prevents us from finding new opportunities. If you always make the same choice in similar situations, you will never see the other side of the coin. Let’s say you are managing a staff of twenty people and you dislike anyone turning up late. As a habit, you give a notice to the latecomer with a warning to be punctual. But once, if you decide to break this pattern and advise the latecomer to compensate by putting in better efforts at work that day, you might be surprised at how effective it may turn out. Thus, by not being yourself once, you may discover the potential your employees have.

In relationships, too, you might have a set of likes and dislikes. Why don’t you try some different options in similar situations? Maybe it would bring out the hidden strengths of your connections with loved ones. Your friend may be surprised if you visit him to wish him a happy birthday at midnight, knowing you always sleep by ten. This gesture of not being yourself to wish him a happy birthday would go a long way.

You can try to occasionally come out of your set pattern of behavior and choices and experience new sides of life.