Psyche section practice

The rule that shrinks me

A reflection practice for one rigid self-rule and a more flexible alternative.

10 min

Steps

Rule

Notice: What do I demand of myself at all times?

Try: Write one sentence containing ‘always’, ‘never’, ‘must’, or ‘cannot’.

Notice: What do I imagine will happen if I break this rule?

Try: Name the feared judgment, rejection, or loss of control.

Notice: What has this rule tried to protect me from?

Try: Identify a possible useful function without automatically endorsing the rule itself.

Notice: How can I keep the value without the absolute ban?

Try: Rewrite the rule so that context and choice are possible.