The Waiting Game

Most people seem to wait for life to throw challenges at them. Since they are not prepared they mostly get surprised by what is coming. Often their reaction is defensive and they try to find something in their memory that can help re-establish a kind of  familiarity, a situation that they recognize and feel able to deal with.

The Momentum Game

One of the great merits of Jazz was and is its emphasis on improvisation. In a group or solo performance a more or less loose framework is just the the kick start for individual improvisation and group interaction. Surprising ideas and events are at the core of this music. Improvised music is full of life and happens in the now.

The Growth Game

Jazz saxophonist and composer Wayne Shorter described the process of breaking through from comfortability to new territory. He said that "knowing the difference between what you are told and what you find out for yourself. Starting as an individual, being alone." is important. Only this will make you grow and lets your perspective adjust to a new scope. And how else would consciousness express itself through you if you denied yourself the process of continual growth?

The Obstruction Game

One should think that this model could serve as an important element in the education of our children to live up to life's challenges. But the seemingly 'safe' and controlled approach with an emphasis on concepts and rules dominates the curriculum at home and in schools. It feels like a historical distortion when there is no mentioning of Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Liszt or Debussy,  to name a just a few, all being great improvisers. No wonder children's natural creativity gets stifled.

In A Nutshell:

One may  accept or seek a challenge to:

• get something done (a specific task like e.g.study for an exam)
• break out of the comfort zone
• pursue change
• try something different
• feel challenged/increased life energy
• take on one's own responsibility
• immerse oneself in a self-chosen experience
• grow

On the more flippant side, a challenge may provide:

• approval from others
• proof  to yourself (being able to do something)
• social acceptance (belonging to a group)