Guan (Contemplation) is the tower in the wind. Wind over Earth. It is about switching from action to observation. 'Guan' means both 'viewing' and 'being seen'. It is the 'meta-perspective' – the view from above onto the playing field in order to recognize patterns.

ObservationInsight

Contemplation. The washing has been carried out, but not yet the sacrifice. With complete trust they look up to him.

Analysis

Guan is the ability to keep the big picture in view in complex situations and to recognize patterns that others miss.

Operative Resources

Vision. The ability to foresee developments by reading the signs of the times.

System Blocks

Over-Intellectualization – Overanalyzing problems to death without emotional involvement.

System-Hacks

Observe.

Meditation: 10 minutes of silence to observe the 'wind' (your thoughts).
Outside View: Ask someone honestly: 'How do I come across to you in situation X?'

Image

The wind blows across the earth: the image of Contemplation. So the ancient kings travel through the regions, study the people and offer teaching.

Shadow Challenge

Shadow: Analysis Paralysis – Observing so much that you never get around to acting. Or: voyeurism without participation.

Strategy

Stop implementing. Switch into analysis mode. Understand the system dynamics before you intervene. Be aware that you are being watched (leading by example).

The Lines

Beginning: Naiveté (Immature)Boyish contemplation. Fine for laypeople, shameful for professionals. Superficial understanding. One sees only the obvious.
Level 2: Tunnel Vision (Narrow-Mindedness)Contemplation through a chink in the door. Beneficial for a woman's persistence. A limited horizon. One sees only part of the system.
Level 3: Decision (Course Check)Contemplating my life. Deciding between moving forward and stepping back. Self-reflection. Am I on course?
Level 4: System Understanding (Wisdom)Contemplating the light of the land. It is beneficial to act as a king's guest. One sees the larger connections and is able to give counsel.
Level 5: Self-Knowledge (Clarity)Contemplating my life. The noble one is without fault. Deep insight into one's own actions and their consequences.
Conclusion: Freedom (Sovereignty)Contemplating his life. The noble one is without fault. The highest level of wisdom. One stands above things and sees the whole picture.

Reflection Journal

If my life were a Netflix series, what would be the main theme of the current season?