Recovery from Abusive Groups Page 52
cult. But when you carefully evaluate an idea and determine how, if, and to
what extent it applies to you, and then build it into your picture of life, you end
up with a stronger sense of who you are. You can find you are more at peace
within yourself and with the world around you.
As I mentioned, this takes mental discipline and work. Once you get the hang of
critical thinking, the payoffs in better decision-making and self-confidence are
great!
Exercise- A Culture of Myths
What are some myths you see and hear around you? Watch TV or listen to the
radio for fifteen minutes and write down the myths you can find. Discuss these
with a friend. To evaluate a myth or idea, try the following:
1. Identify the idea or myth you want to question.
2. Assess, evaluate, and critique it keeping in mind what's right for you.
3. Modify, integrate, apply, and test it within your life.
When you get really good at myth detection, you will be amazed at how many
myths you hear One of the most prevalent myths today is `you can have it all."
Why is this not true? Why is it dangerous to perpetuate some myths? What
kinds of problems can you predict because of how this myth is shaping people's
expectations today?
Summary
There are so many wonderful aspects to life. You are free now to learn of them
and to enjoy them. You are free to take the risks and enjoy the fruits of your
efforts. With this freedom comes the responsibility and accountability for your
actions. Learn the skills that can take you where you want to go with your life
and change the habits that get in your way.
Be your own best friend and coach. (See Newman and Berkowitz, 1971.)
cult. But when you carefully evaluate an idea and determine how, if, and to
what extent it applies to you, and then build it into your picture of life, you end
up with a stronger sense of who you are. You can find you are more at peace
within yourself and with the world around you.
As I mentioned, this takes mental discipline and work. Once you get the hang of
critical thinking, the payoffs in better decision-making and self-confidence are
great!
Exercise- A Culture of Myths
What are some myths you see and hear around you? Watch TV or listen to the
radio for fifteen minutes and write down the myths you can find. Discuss these
with a friend. To evaluate a myth or idea, try the following:
1. Identify the idea or myth you want to question.
2. Assess, evaluate, and critique it keeping in mind what's right for you.
3. Modify, integrate, apply, and test it within your life.
When you get really good at myth detection, you will be amazed at how many
myths you hear One of the most prevalent myths today is `you can have it all."
Why is this not true? Why is it dangerous to perpetuate some myths? What
kinds of problems can you predict because of how this myth is shaping people's
expectations today?
Summary
There are so many wonderful aspects to life. You are free now to learn of them
and to enjoy them. You are free to take the risks and enjoy the fruits of your
efforts. With this freedom comes the responsibility and accountability for your
actions. Learn the skills that can take you where you want to go with your life
and change the habits that get in your way.
Be your own best friend and coach. (See Newman and Berkowitz, 1971.)
