Classy Problems is a daily post of thinking in motion by Dan T. Rogers. Each post stands alone as a thought-provoking piece, yet together, they create a puzzle of ideas. They invite you to see things from a different angle, rethink what you thought you knew, and explore what’s beyond your current understanding.
What We Really Believe To Be True
We assume our knowing is in alignment with our beliefs.
To move information from knowledge to understanding requires effort in the form of processing. We assume that by doing that, we will embed and integrate it into our belief system. At times, that does happen. We might even reference it in our everyday conversation.
Our thoughts and words only inform us of what we think and want to be true.
Our actions inform us of what we really believe to be true.
What are your actions saying that your thoughts and words aren’t?
Zoom Settings
Long before the era of shelter-in-place, and likely long after the next tectonic shift in technology, the true power of ‘zoom’ will endure.
As transformative as tech can be, the real value lies in our ability to adjust the elevation of our perspective. The level at which we choose to zoom in or out profoundly influences how we perceive and interpret reality.
If the meaning doesn’t feel right, remember, that a shift in your ‘zoom’ settings can reveal a different meaning. The ability to alter perspective is not just a tool but a skill that enhances how we engage with everything from daily tasks to complex challenges.
Are you operating on default settings, or are you intentionally setting your own zoom to shape your perspective?
Time Stops When We’re In It
One of the compelling attributes of engagement is that time stops.
We lose track of it when we become one with it.
Every moment, we can choose to engage or transact.
Both can be effective. Both require effort.
The question is whether we are looking for something to count or to be someone counted on.
Transacting is keeping score.
Engaging is being a part of the score.
Is time stopping or are you still counting?
Learning Awareness
Awareness is discovery. We mistake discovery for development.
Don’t confuse awareness with learning.
Awareness is the moment we realize we’ve been running a loop, not the act of stepping out of it. Conscious incompetence is not a flaw. It’s an attribute to awareness. It tells us we’ve seen a pattern.
Seeing the pattern and changing the pattern are two different discoveries.
Learning requires more than observation. It requires humility in action. It begins when we stop rehearsing and start acting differently.
That’s a classy problem: deciding what not to keep doing now that we see it.
What loop have you become aware of that you have not yet exited?
Your Will Not Mine
Your will isn’t mine to control. Mine is not yours to justify.
What might be indicated is not a compromise of wills but a demonstration of willingness.
Your will not mine is choosing to align without demanding agreement.
What does your willingness look like when others don’t share your opinion?
Some Thoughts on Thinking and Planning
Thinking is inclusive. You can do it alone, with other people, with a keyboard, with a whiteboard, with your eyes open, with your eyes closed, with a pen, or with a pencil. The key to effective thinking is to have a loose grip on the outcome and a high degree of curiosity. The value of thinking is in the exploration of what could be.
Planning is exclusive. You can do it alone, with other people, with a keyboard, with a whiteboard, with your eyes open, with your eyes closed, with a pen, or with a pencil. The key to effective planning is to have a firm grasp on the desired outcome and why you want it. The value of planning is in the exploration of how to get the desired outcome.
Is your outcome to be thinking, or are you planning an outcome?
Model vs. Demonstrate
Modeling is the act of demonstrating someone else’s product. A demonstration is the product of our actions.
To model is to try it on. To demonstrate is to wear it like our skin.
We’re not skipping steps when we model first. We’re honoring the process of becoming.
What are you modeling that you haven’t yet made your own?
Classy Problems is a daily post of thinking in motion by Dan T. Rogers. Each post stands alone as a thought-provoking piece, yet together, they create a puzzle of ideas. They invite you to see things from a different angle, rethink what you thought you knew, and explore what’s beyond your current understanding.
What is a classy problem? A classy problem is when we’ve been afforded the opportunity to figure out what to do. Time to figure it out. Time to practice. Time to discern. When faced with the time to figure out a classy problem, it is more effective to focus on what NOT to do than trying to figure out what to do. In a word: restraint. JOIN US in exploring the distinction between what to do and what not to do in the pursuit of clarity.
SPIRITUAL GANGSTER: at The Sober Curator is a haven for those embracing sobriety with a healthy dose of spiritual sass. This space invites you to dive into meditation, astrology, intentional living, philosophy, and personal reflection—all while keeping your feet (and your sobriety) firmly on the ground. Whether you’re exploring new spiritual practices or deepening an existing one, Spiritual Gangster offers inspiration, insight, and a community that blends mindful living with alcohol-free fun.
Spiritual Gangster Line-up:
Stoicism & Sobriety – Ancient Philosophy for Modern Recovery with Sober Curator Contributors Derek Castleman and Tony Harte
The Card Divo – Quick & Sober Tarot Readings with Sober Curator Contributor Senior Daniel G. Garza
Classy Problems – Clarity, Restraint & Mindful Decision-Making with Senior Sober Curator Contributor Dan T. Rogers
SoberCast with Six – Astrology & Tarot for the Sober Life with Senior Sober Curator Contributor Analisa Six
Sobriety in Flow – Yoga Beyond the Poses with Senior Travel Sober Curator Contributor Teresa Bergen
Thirsty for Wonder – Recovery Coaching & Spiritual Companionship with Sober Curator Contributor Anne Marie Cribben
Spiritual Substance – Mindfulness, Science & Soul with Senior Sober Curator Contributor Lane Kennedy
Resources Are Available
If you or someone you know is experiencing difficulties surrounding alcoholism, addiction, or mental illness, please reach out and ask for help. People everywhere can and want to help; you just have to know where to look. And continue to look until you find what works for you. Click here for a list of regional and national resources.
