Embarking on a journey of self-transformation is a brave and rewarding endeavour. When you start hacking into your subconscious and replacing old paradigms with new, beneficial ones, you must commit fully to the process. This commitment is crucial because, without it, you'll find yourself in a state of limbo, much like a convict who breaks out of their cell but hasn't yet escaped the prison grounds.
The Wall of Terror
Imagine this scenario: you've managed to break out of your cell, and you're creeping along the wall of the prison. The guards are searching for you, the sirens are blaring, the searchlights are sweeping the grounds, and the dogs are sniffing the air for your scent. You're in an in-between stage, wondering whether you should push forward to complete freedom or retreat to the safety of your cell because the outside world seems too dangerous.
This situation is what Bob Proctor refers to as the "wall of terror." When you embark on significant transformational change, your subconscious mind, which hates change, will make you feel incredibly uncomfortable. You might start thinking that you were better off back in your cell, where things were predictable and familiar.
Institutionalisation and the Comfort Zone
This notion of being "institutionalised" is vividly depicted in the film Shawshank Redemption. Long-term prisoners, once released, often find it difficult to adapt to the outside world. They are so accustomed to the regimented life of prison that the freedom to make their own decisions becomes overwhelming.
Similarly, in our own lives, we might find it daunting to take control of our destiny and steer it away from subconscious patterns and habits. Initially, it can be a scary and uncomfortable experience. But remember, you are in the driver's seat of your life. It’s your conscious choices, not your subconscious habits, that will shape your future.
Progress, Not Perfection
It's essential to understand that self-improvement is an ongoing process. You might find yourself needing to retreat to your "cell" for a while to regroup and plan your next move. This retreat isn't a failure; it's a strategic pause. Much like in the film Alcatraz, where the characters venture out of their cells multiple times to scout the area and prepare better for their final escape, you, too, may need several attempts to break free from old behaviour patterns.
Each retreat is an opportunity to retool and gather the resources you need for your next attempt. With each try, you'll find yourself getting a bit further away from the cell and closer to freedom. It's about progress, not perfection. The more you repeat this process, the less time you'll spend in the cell, and the further you'll move towards your ultimate goal.
Keep Pushing Forward
The key to overcoming self-sabotage and achieving a happy, authentic life lies in persistence. Never quit trying to improve. Understand that feeling uncomfortable is a sign of growth. Each time you push beyond your comfort zone, you're breaking another link in the chain of self-sabotage.
Keep going, and remember that every step forward, no matter how small, is a victory. You have the power to transform your life. With dedication and persistence, you'll find yourself spending less time in the cell and more time enjoying the freedom and authenticity you've worked so hard to achieve.
Best of luck on your journey!