The Context
The average person knows what they should be doing. They know that they want to do it. But the problem is, they’ve already convinced themselves that they can’t. They’ve gone under hypnosis. And so, the only remaining route to real change is through tension. Because it possesses its own generative drive, which gives rise to an impetus to move toward a resolution. Louie’s comedy special perfectly summarizes his version of this tension as an overweight, middle aged man. He says: The meal isn’t over when I’m full, the meal is over when I hate myself. Which is a horribly unhealthy way to go through life. But most people are guilty of it. We’ve all finished dinner and sat back in our chairs and lifted our shirts to undo the top button of our pants, only to discover that it was already open. Blech.
The Tool
Disgust Of Wind
DISGUST OF WIND -- Create real, lasting change through the power of positive tension.
This little moment actually has the power to change everything. Because it contains positive tension. It creates an emotional dynamic that moves people forward. In this case of eating habits, it’s disgust, which is one of the few feelings in life that actually makes people say, okay, I’m ready. I feel more open to changing. And not to neglect the sense of compassion and acceptance and love and worthiness for ourselves, but sometimes we need to feel disgusted with our health or our work or our relationships or our station in life in order to create a real breakthrough.
The Rest
This tool proves the power of positive tension. A disgust of wind might send your boat sailing into better waters. Healthier waters. More prolific waters. Are you trying to rid your life of disgust, or trying to do something more creative with it?
The Benefits
Tap the generative drive of shame
Increase your openness to changing
Channel your difficult emotions creatively
Create an emotional dynamic that moves you forward