The Art of Un-Knowing

“Knowing is the enemy of Learning.” — Chase Hughes

What a powerful quote to kick off this month. We discuss this often in our treatment preparation, group integration, and individual therapy. For real change to occur, we must be open to changing what we know and how we know it.

The Trap of "Knowing"

When you decide you “know” someone—or even yourself—you immediately limit the possibilities. We are constantly in flux. Think of your body: if you sleep wrong, you wake up with a different body than the day before. Injuries, aging, and changing needs constantly redefine our physical boundaries.

When we commit to what we think we know, we stop being curious. What if you changed your approach completely?

Recognize that what you “know” is only based on past experiences. Instead, try on a curious point of view:

• I am curious about what my body needs today.

• I am curious about who my partner might be today.

• I am curious about what I may feel or want today.

Staying curious expands your ability to experience the same people, places, and things in a totally different way. You’ve heard the term, "You can’t step into the same river twice." Why? Because as long as the water is flowing, it’s never the same river. You are that river.

The Sculpting of Life

Life has a way of changing us, much like the weather changes nature. If you’re on autopilot, life will eventually toss you a plot twist to reawaken you to the present. Remember: humans are a working species, like ants or bees. We aren't meant to be still like the sloth.

Think about how you handle the natural sculpting of life:

• Do you meet challenges with grace or excitement for an "upgrade"?

• Do you protest, fight, or get grumpy?

• Do you trust that everything is happening for your highest good?

• Are you relying only on "thinking" and ignoring your body, feelings,

  and intuition?

Whoever said life should be challenge-free? An unchallenged person would be quite boring!

Pleasure vs. Purpose

Life isn’t just about seeking pleasure; that’s a nice bonus, but it isn’t the goal. In fact, trying to stay in a state of constant pleasure is counterproductive for your brain. Contrast breeds appreciation.Without Winter, who would care about Spring?

We have a habit of rejecting anything that isn't "preferred," a habit made worse by the "highlight reels" of social media. Try to see your life in seasons. Lean into whatever you are experiencing. If you’re feeling challenged, pull me aside for a different perspective or join our integration group. Getting out of your own head and letting others help expand your view works wonders!

Contribution is the Key

In all of human history, we were never designed to be "happy, entertained, and soothed" all the time. Humans are meant to build, create, and evolve. You are likely most content when you are high in contribution—when you feel meaningful and part of a team or family.

“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” — Mahatma Gandhi

This Month’s Invitation

Leave "knowing" behind. When you catch yourself making an assumption, try saying: “In the reference of the past, I know this to be my perspective of ______.”

Don't drag the past into the present. Give the people in your life—and yourself—permission to change, to react differently, and to evolve.

You are all amazing. I am so proud of you for taking on this journey of personal growth and healing!

Much love to you all,

Christine Salvo