Have you experienced a contronym moment?

Finding a new word or an insightful question is something I relish! As a writer, it is part of growing my craft. It also serves to challenge my perspective and refine my philosophy. It may not seem like it’s an investment on the surface but seeking new ideas and ways to express ourselves is one of the best we can make.

For example, I was writing about how a moment first appears will hardly ever be the accurate measure of its worth and importance. For example, what feels like an ending is more likely a beginning.  We live our lives in the moment. And that’s where they can change.

As I was exploring that thought, I stumbled across a new word: Contronym.

A contronym is a single word that has two contradictory meanings. I recognized that under it all, it isn’t just about words; it is also moments. We can experience contronym moments.  

Let’s explore that idea with the word left. It means both that it remained and that it departed. When we talk about weathering, it can mean something withstood the storm or that it has been worn down by it.

Same word. Same moment. Two meanings. Two very different results. We get to choose.

This brings me to my second language love: A good question.

My favorites are those that make me think. A fellow mastermind member and friend posted one on social media that seemed simple enough until I tried to answer it.

If you could be famous for one thing, what would it be?

Perhaps answering the question was a challenge because the word “famous” isn’t something I’ve ever sought. However, even still, it’s worth thinking about because famous and legacy are interchangeable words. And legacy is something I care about a great deal.

New words. Insightful questions. I seek them out to grow.

We all want to experience a life that never stops being remarkable. At any age and in any season, this remains our best place to invest ourselves because it means we are always seeking.

One of my favorite books is Reinvent Yourself by James Altucher. Here is what he has to say about it:

But the reality is: Reinvention is life. This is the call to adventure that constantly whispers to us. Do we answer it? Do we take the call?

This is now the time to do it. It’s going to be too late tomorrow. And it was too early yesterday.

New words and new questions. Perhaps he is right. Reinvention is the essence of life.

Is now the time? Your time?

If you could be famous right now for one thing, what would it be?