Liminal Thinking
By changing the way you think and changing your beliefs, you can change not only yourself but the world.
Recently, as I was wandering through my local library (yes, they still exist), I came across Dave Gray's book Liminal Thinking. I was drawn in by the colorful cover and the subtitle, “Create the Change You Want by Changing the Way You Think.” This was intriguing, mainly because I have been thinking about creating from circumstances rather than reacting to them lately. I want to live a life of purpose, one I actively choose, not one dictated by chance or circumstance.
As Amor Towles beautifully puts it in A Gentleman in Moscow, “…if a man does not master his circumstances, then he is bound to be mastered by them.”
“…if a man does not master his circumstances, then he is bound to be mastered by them.”
- Amor Towles, A Gentleman in Moscow
Earlier this year, I read Shane Parrish’s Clear Thinking—a guide on better decision-making by recognizing default patterns and behaviors. While flipping through the pages of Liminal Thinking, I thought it might be a complementary read and build on similar principles, so I decided to add it to my stack. I’m glad I did; it’s a definite must-read!
You may be wondering, what the heck is liminal thinking? According to the book, “Liminal thinking is the art of creating change by understanding, shaping, and reframing beliefs.”
The concept of liminal thinking explores the idea that beliefs shape our perceptions and actions, and by changing those beliefs, we can alter our reality. This approach encourages examining the patterns and assumptions in our lives that may be holding us back.
But liminal thinking isn't just about thinking differently; it's about embracing those "liminal" spaces between established thoughts and beliefs—the spaces where true transformation occurs.
Gray humanizes the concepts he presents through reflections and storytelling, making them relatable and accessible. For instance, when he discusses the idea of "doom loops"—repetitive, negative patterns in our lives—he presents a concrete example of punishing or rewarding a dog. He then encourages readers to sketch patterns from their own lives and imagine how they might transform them into "delight loops." This exercise is more than theoretical; it's a practical tool that readers can immediately implement.
Here’s an example of a doom loop that I transformed into a delight loop.
Applying Liminal Thinking
Liminal thinking can be applied to your personal life, your team, or even the world.
Gray challenges us to question our assumptions, embrace uncertainty, and explore new perspectives. By doing so, we open ourselves up to the possibility of profound change—not just in our lives but in the world around us.
The emphasis on reshaping beliefs to transform reality struck a chord with me. For instance, when Gray discusses "doom loops" and "delight loops," it prompted me to reflect on similar patterns in my own life. This eye-opening exploration inspired me to approach challenges with a new perspective.
Additionally, the notion of beliefs defining our identities (see the Six Principles below) reminds me of Adam Grant’s Think Again. These books have inspired me to reflect on the life I want and the beliefs holding me back. Learning to let go of beliefs that no longer serve me is an ongoing process. I’m finding that some are easier to let go of than others!
I realized that my identity and self-worth were very tightly entwined with my career and salary. Untangling this hasn’t been easy, but slowly challenging and replacing the beliefs with new beliefs, such as “my worth is more than just money,” has been life-altering.
Whether you're a leader seeking to inspire your team, an individual pursuing personal growth, or simply curious about the power of beliefs, Liminal Thinking offers invaluable insights and practical exercises. I highly recommend this book to anyone seeking change.
Its numerous examples and exercises make applying liminal thinking accessible and transformative. It might just change the way you see yourself and the world.
Liminal Thinking: Six Principles
Now, let’s delve into the six core principles of liminal thinking and their application within teams.1
Beliefs are Models
Our beliefs are not reality itself but our interpretation of it. They shape how we perceive the world. Recognizing this allows us to change our beliefs. Remember, beliefs do not equal facts.
In a team setting, each member brings their own beliefs shaped by their experiences and backgrounds. These individual beliefs collectively form the team's model of reality, influencing decisions, actions, and interactions. Identifying and discussing these beliefs is crucial to ensure alignment and openness to new perspectives.
Beliefs are Created
They form through experiences, interactions, and the stories we tell ourselves. Consider your team's beliefs. How do they compare with other teams in your company? What beliefs would benefit your team? What beliefs should the team let go of?
Beliefs Create a Shared World
Shared beliefs help us connect with others by creating a common understanding. Without shared beliefs, there is only chaos. It would be hard to function without them!
If a team or group wants to change, the starting point is identifying and changing the underlying shared beliefs.
Beliefs Create Blind Spots
They can limit our perceptions and prevent us from seeing alternative possibilities. Does your team have blind spots? What might you be missing because of them? Are there outdated or limiting beliefs that your team holds? How can you challenge and update these to improve team dynamics and performance?
Beliefs Defend Themselves
Beliefs are maintained by self-sealing logic, protecting our identity and self-worth. Team members may unconsciously defend their existing beliefs to maintain a sense of stability and predictability. Recognizing this defensive behavior is the first step toward fostering a more open and adaptable team culture. How does your team react to challenges or changes? Are certain beliefs resistant to scrutiny?
Beliefs are Tied to Identity
Core beliefs are the toughest to change because they’re tied to our identity. In a team, these core beliefs shape the group's collective identity. For example, a team might pride itself on speed or efficiency.
While such identities drive performance, they can also become barriers if they prevent the team from adapting to new circumstances or embracing different methods. Understanding and addressing these core beliefs is crucial for fostering meaningful and sustainable change within the team.
What beliefs define your team’s identity? How can you ensure these beliefs are empowering rather than limiting?
Conversation Starters
What does "liminal thinking" mean to you, and how does it apply to your life or work?
What beliefs do you have that might be holding you back?
How can embracing uncertainty and challenging beliefs lead to personal growth and development?
What strategies or practices do you use to challenge your assumptions and expand your viewpoints?
How can liminal thinking be applied to software quality and testing?
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xo,
Brie
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My areas of expertise and interest are leadership development, conquering impostor syndrome, values exploration, goal setting, and creating habits & systems. And, of course, Quality Engineering. 🐞
While I focused here on applying liminal thinking at the team level, these principles are universally relevant, from the individual to the global stage.