Psycho meaning mind and cybernetics being the science feedback mechanisms and control systems. This is one of the first books I read on my journey into self growth and I always recommend to anyone who asks why I think the way I do.
This book was released in 1960 and was written by a plastic surgeon named Dr. Maxwell Maltz. He discovered that even when he ‘repaired’ someone’s appearance requested for whatever reason, that did not mean that they would always change how they felt about themselves. While some patients were obviously more confident about themselves after his work and healing, others would not. They would still feel inadequate, insecure and self-conscious despite apparent changes to their physical appearance. This led him to study and write his book Psycho-Cybernetics concluding that your self image is a large factor in determining your confidence, behavior, success and happiness.
I will give you a few core ideas of the book in this post, but if you are interested in the purchase of said book which I highly recommend, I have furnished a link for you right here on this site for your convenience. Yes, it is an affiliate link.
Self-Image is Key
Although this seems quite obvious, humans still ‘miss it’. I f you believe deep down that:
- “I fail all the time”
- “I don’t deserve”
- “I am not worthy”
What you do is going to align with those thoughts. Every. Single. Time.
But if you see yourself as:
- Valuable
- Capable
- Worthy
Well, then your actions are going to reflect that.
It’s simple, but not easy. Meaning it could take some time. First step? Awareness. Start catching yourself in the negative thought pattern. Look around you for evidence of the opposite being true. Be grateful. Write these things down. The sooner you start, the sooner you will be done. The sooner you will ‘fix’ those debilitating thought patterns.
Another Key is Imagination
If you say one thing, but imagine something different? Guess what? That image of failing-even though you are saying “I can do this” is going to win. I bet that image of failing or one similar to said image is one you have used often. So it’s deeply ingrained in that brain of yours. But never fear, it can still be diverted. You can veer off your usual self-image of failure by consciously and using intent imagining a different scene for once. Then again, and again. Then whenever you say to yourself “I can do this” the NEW image you IMAGINED will be used therefore supported and then you will see this image in real life. Exciting stuff, huh? It is possible.
This process is based on neuroplasticity and that is another post altogether which will be covered here on this illustrious site very soon.
Just Relax
If you’re anxious i.e. have anxiety, this will interfere. Your mind has its own natural guidance system. Maltz was teaching relaxation, tension release and trusting the process. Forcing is not going to help your situation.
If there is one thing I have learned: control ain’t the way to run your life. If you have not heard of Alan Watts, go find out. I will share this one quote of his.
“To have faith is to trust yourself to the water. When you swim you don’t grab hold of the water, because if you do you will sink and drown. Instead, you relax, and float.”
Hope This Helps
Dr Maltz had a lot of cutting edge ideas back in the 60’s that became mainstream even if not scientifically proven but are supported by modern psychology. These include the cognitive reframing, growth mindset, self concept and my favorite, visualization.
Not forcing but shifting your self-identity was his main message but his book, Psycho-Cybernetics will enlighten you so much deeper that what I have touched on here in this post.
So do yourself a favor and click on the above link and read and act on this book. It’s not just you but the humans around you who will benefit.
Again, you are most welcome. Glad to be of service.