Mindfulness
Understanding systems and how to change them is essential to achieve a certain goal or outcome. However, if that goal is not well defined or poorly measured, systems thinking can lead to unintended outcomes. Because one moves the system towards their perspective of a better reality, thinking and acting as a systemic change agent/engineer, is seen as a noble but egoistic task. Systems of issues and systems of actors are two sides of the same coin, highlighting the importance of self-reflection regarding one’s role within the system. To be able to set the right goals and place one realistically within the system, developing an honest, non-judgmental and conscious mind is necessary.
Dedicating time and energy to being as mindful and aware as possible within the given context enables one to prioritize problems, set meaningful and measurable goals, and make informed decisions when applying systems thinking to drive change.
Practice clearing your mind by trying to meditate and be present in the physical context you’re in right now. If you find yourself restless or easily distracted, try to focus on your breath and label without judgement any surfacing thoughts.
Despite self-held skepticism regarding digitalisation and photos, as they pull focus away to what is, a personal gallery from surroundings in Amsterdam and The Hague might help to find inner calm and open up to wonders around.
In August 2025, project ‘Stick to the now’ started, based on an item found at Ruigoord which guides a way out of thinking, back to the now.
Learn more at sticktothenow.com.