5 Tools to Unlock Your Potential
Finding a great new book has proven to be a challenge for me lately. After starting 10 books and deciding they weren’t for me, I opted to do something unusual: go back to a book I’d enjoyed a couple of years ago. That book is The Tools: Transform Your Problems into Courage, Confidence, and Creativity by renowned psychotherapists Phil Stutz (from the Netflix series with Jonah Hill) and Barry Michels.
It’s been great to read it with a different perspective and see how the learnings are different now versus two years ago.
It outlines five techniques to help us overcome challenges and unlock our full potential. Like many things, they’re simple but not easy.
Here are the five tools and how to use them:
1. The reversal of desire
Purpose: this tool helps you overcome avoidance and fear by embracing challenges rather than avoiding them.
How to use: when faced with a situation you tend to avoid due to fear or discomfort, intentionally get excited about tackling it. This mindset shift helps you move forward despite initial resistance.
2. Active love
Purpose: this tool is used to break free from negative thoughts and emotions, especially when dealing with difficult people or situations.
How to use: focus on sending love and positive energy towards the person or situation causing distress. This helps shift your perspective and releases you from negative cycles.
3. Inner authority
Purpose: this tool helps you overcome self-doubt and insecurity by connecting with your authentic self.
How to use: practice self-expression and assertiveness. Recognize and challenge your inner critic to build confidence and trust in your decisions.
4. The grateful flow
Purpose: this tool combats negative thinking and depression by cultivating gratitude.
How to use: discipline your mind to focus on the positive aspects of your life. Regularly practice gratitude to connect with a higher sense of well-being.
5. Jeopardy
Purpose: this tool enhances willpower and encourages consistent action towards your goals.
How to use: imagine that your life is in jeopardy if you don't take immediate action towards your goals. This mindset helps build the willpower needed to overcome procrastination and stay motivated.
Naturally, reading about tools isn’t going to create the change you may seek. You’ll need to implement them (hence the ‘not easy’ part). By doing so, you’ll develop the resilience and mindset needed to navigate life's uncertainties and pain, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and empowered life.
I’m going to pick one on which to focus and build from there. How about you?
To using the tools, Darrah
Ps if you have a book recommendation you think I’d love, please email it to me!