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The 4 stages flourishing unique to humans

Many people don’t know it…

 

But the roots of modern day psychology grew from the seeds of philosophy, planted many hundreds of year’s ago by the ancient philosophers.

 

And of course…

 

One topic that has occupied active debate for centuries is human happiness.

 

One author who embraces Socratic philosophy is Jules Evans. And in sum, he highlights 4 stages that are the foundations of human change and self development:

 

1 – Humans can know themselves.
2 – Humans can change themselves.
3 – Humans can consciously create new habits.
4 – Humans can flourish.

 

Whilst simple and concise, I believe these 4 steps really are the foundation to a more fulfilling life.

 

First of all…

 

Humans can know themselves.

 

This really does set you apart from other animals.
Because you have such a highly developed rational, conscious brain – you have the unique human ability to use your intelligence to examine and review your unconscious beliefs and values.

 

Then stage 2…

 

Humans can change themselves.

 

You can use the understanding you gain from stage 1 to challenge and change your beliefs. Of course this is not always easy, and it does require tools such as the ones I share in the Limbic Performance System – so tools that work directly with the subconscious mind that will help you to reprogramme your outdated beliefs.

 

But the important thing to know is you CAN change your beliefs.
And if you change your beliefs, you change the way you feel about things (beliefs and feelings are linked)
And if you change the way you feel, you change the way you think and behave.

 

And the really exciting stage….

 

Humans can consciously create new habits.

 

You can create new habits in the way you think.
You can create new habits in the way you feel.
You can create new habits in the way you behave.

 

Which enables you to move on to stage 4…

 

Humans can flourish.

 

And in the words of the founder of Positive Psychology, Martin Seligman,

 

“Flourishing increases life satisfaction by increasing positive emotion, engagement, positive relationships, meaning, and accomplishment”

 

I’m off to follow the 4 stages which make us humans unique.

 

How about you?

 

To your happiness and fulfillment.

 

 

 

 

Steve Neale
“Europe’s Leading Expert on Personal and Professional Growth”

 

Psychologist, Executive Coach, EI Practitioner, Award Winning Trainer, International Author, Psychodynamic Therapist, Hypnotherapist, Mindfulness Instructor, International Speaker, Creator of the LPS, Creator of the Accredited Masters in High Performance Leadership

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