Yesterday, we discussed the Triad of Change and how all change requires congruence in the 3 areas: Structure, Behavior and Perception.
Today, we explore this further and discuss how to effectively use this model to create long-lasting change.
Although counter-intuitive, the greatest hindrance to making effective change is that we focus on the area that needs to be change. For example, if we want to change a behavior such as a habit, we tend to focus on the habit and try to change our behavior. If we want to change how we feel (our perception), we tend to dwell on how we feel. If we want to change our structure, such as a our finances, we tend to focus on the finances.
This is our greatest source of struggle. For generally, the side of the triad that we want to change is our weakest link and by trying to make a change utilizing our weakest side is a sure formula for further struggle.
The most effective way to create change in one of the sides of the triad is to focus on and start making change in the other 2 sides of the triad…and the 3rd side you are trying to change will fall into step with them. This is the magic of this model and the amazing thing is when all three sides are at a new level of congruence you tap into a new and previously untapped source of Energy that supports that “new triad.”
So if you want to change Structure (What you Have) change what you are focusing on and what you are doing congruent with the new structure you want to create
If you want to change Behavior (What you are doing) change what you are focused on and the structure in and around you congruent with the new behavior you want to create.
If you want to change Perception (How you think and feel) change the structure in and around you and what you are doing congruent with the new perception you want to create.
Let’s look at some real-life examples
Have you every felt down or stressed out (Perception), so you went for a walk (Behavior) in a Park (Structure) and not only did you start to feel better (Perception) but you had a creative idea that would move you forward. (New source of energy in New triad). This is the model at work! By focusing on the other 2 sides of the triad, the other side you wanted to change….changed, and the new congruence of the 3 sides allowed you to tap into creative resources that were unavailable before.
Have you ever need to move a new apartment or house (Structure)? If you just focused on the new residence you wouldn’t move anywhere. By shifting your focus to the ideals you would like to experience in the new house and how it would feel (Perception), taking action to look at listings, visit homes and then make a choice and actually move (Behavior), before you know it you are in your new house. (Structure). You can also apply this example to finding a new job, relationship, etc.
Have you ever wanted to start exercising or go on a diet (Behavior). Generally, when you failed, you probably were focused on losing weight and attempted it on your own. But those times you were successful, you focused on how the new you you wanted to feel (Perception) and joined a gym or exercise class … or followed some diet regime such as Weight Watcher’s or Atkin’s in the case of diet (Structure).
So Let’s put it to work:
- What is something you want to change?
- Is it something you have (Structure), something you do (Behavior) or how you feel (Perception)
- If it is a Structure, what is a compelling reason to make the change (Perception) and what can you do differently (behavior) that would be congruent with that new structure?
- If it is a Behavior, what is a compelling reason to make the change (Perception) and what can you change around you (structure) to support that new behavior?
- If it is a Perception, what can you change around you and do that would be in alignment with that new perception.
In my Network Chiropractic Wellness center, A Place for Healing, we support people in their health and wellness goals by implementing the Triad of Change.
Network Spinal Analysis (NSA) uses gentle touches on the spine to help develop new internal emerging strategies of breath and movement (behavior) to optimize the posture (structure) of the spine and nervous system and be more effective at adapting to stress (behavior) helping people to feel better and have a more satisfying and fulfilling experience of life (Perception). By changing structure and behavior, we change perception.
We also utilize a strategy called Somatorespiratory Integration (SRI). SRI utilizes includes specific exercises which enhance self-awareness with respiration. It promotes the ability to focus attention on gross and subtle body movements and rhythms, self-directed breathing, awareness of one’s tension, and verbal statements reflecting one’s internal state. These exercise dissipate energy stored as tension, enhance structural flexibility, increase the experience of safety within the body, and demonstrate characteristic shifts in states of consciousness.
So next time you need to make a change, determine which side of the triad that change resides. LET IT GO and focus on the other 2 sides!
With Love,
Dr Barry
A Place for Healing 