The Black Swan in Life
It’s Christmas time and the New-Year is just around the corner, which is a good time to have a look at what we have done this year. Where have we grown, what has changed in what we do? What new ideas did we have and what concepts have we let go of?
It is said that before the discovery of Australia, people in the Old World were convinced that all swans were white, a certain belief confirmed by all evidence at the time. The sighting of the first black swan in 1697 might have been an interesting surprise for the few bird enthusiasts but that is not where the significance of the story lies.
It illustrates a severe limitation to our learning from observations or experience and the fragility of our knowledge. One single observation can invalidate a general statement derived from millions of sightings of white swans. All you need is one single black bird.
Why am I sharing this extract from Nassim Taleb’s “The Black Swan” book with you?
Because the chances are you’ve experienced a few ‘black swans’ in your life. Think about the significant events which have taken place since you were born, your choice of profession, meeting your mate, your exile from your country of origin, the challenges you faced your sudden enrichment or impoverishment.
How often did these things occur according to plan?
And what was the effect of the unexpected event in your life?
Remember all those occurrences were what brought you to where you are today. It was the path that you were meant to walk on. The more you get clearer on what path it is the easier and happier that journey will be.
That’s why I enjoy end of the year. It allows me to reflect and look and check my path and learn a bit more about it. It gives me, for just a while, an opportunity to look at it from a higher perspective, that most days of the year I don’t have as I’m too much engaged in the daily routine and the daily challenges.
Take this time and check your path and check for those “Black Swan� in your life.
Have a great New Year! Love, Vered
