Apart from thinking outside of the box (kindly forgive the cliche) my challenge to myself, my sons, and those whom I have the joy of teaching, is to think alone. Have thoughts, plans, aspirations, that are not determined or shaped by commercials, fads, friends, or even by immediate and extended family. 

This is a tough but liberating challenge.  I encounter people who appear terrified to allow an independent thought to cross their beautiful minds. They give a sideways or backward glance seeking affirmation before the thought is permitted to step out. 

The joy of owning their own thoughts, exploring unique possibilities even within their own heads, it appears, will not be theirs.

The fear cripples into conformity. 

Seth Godin, speaker and top-selling writer, used the term “sheepwalking” in Tribes to describe mindless following.

I’ve extended his metaphor: 

“Sheep-thinking”  – borrowing thinking from others for fear of having an original or contrary thought.  

“Sheep-talking”  – sounding just like everyone else sounds, something particularly noticeable in churches and faith movements. 

“Sheep-feeling”  – to feel what everyone else feels, not in empathy or solidarity but in being caught up or swept up by the emotion of the moment. 

“Sheeping” has become my catchall when it’s happening within me and I hear or see it around me.