So much of what we think seems to be a function of what we've been exposed to. This is often what puts people in positions of leadership—because of what they know (whether or not that makes them a good leader is another matter altogether). We often feel more comfortable with things we have seen or, even more, experienced.
This process of this exposure is a function of both our choosing, as well as not of our choosing. Some things are thrust upon us—we have to deal with whatever it is. Other things are more a function of what we pursue. Often that disposition—pursuing things—leads us simply to more things, which then lead us to even more things, and so on.
At the end of the day, what and how we think are impacted as we get more comfortable with a reality that carries both great consistencies and great variations. For those seeking a singular meaning of things, this tension can be crushing. For others, where meaning is endless, it quite simply can't be described other than joy.
Most people who can change their thinking have been exposed to something new (at least to them). In many cases, this can be described as growth and those who are interested in things like growth often have a propensity to lead others to do the same.
