Getting to the ROOTS of a Problem

First off, I was hesitant to use the word "problem" - rather, think of it as a tension that exists between where one IS and where one WANTS TO BE. Or, think of it as an obstacle to your "best".

This post from a Lean Eater today was so fantastic, I had to share. The research, reflection and self-work that this team and some individuals on this team specifically are doing is simply superb.

You will see she is breaking down the "problem" to its roots - which for her is sugar addiction. And she is then scoring herself in those areas. I personally love self assessment and assigning a score or number as it represents HOPE and GROWTH POTENTIAL! It is actually very motivating!



Here is her post:

Tony Robbins has this theory that when you have a problem, but it's an internal problem rather than an external problem, it's likely that you are in fact fabricating the problem because it somehow meets some of your basic human needs.

You're supposed to identify how your 'problem' is serving your needs and then identify how else you could serve those needs. Here goes:

1. Certainty
This is the need for security, comfort and consistency.

Eating sugary junk food serves my need for certainty on a level of about 7.5 out of 10 because I know exactly how my body will react and how it will make me feel (high, then numb). 7/10

2. Uncertainty
This is need for variety, challenges.

Trying and tasting new foods provides variety to my day, especially because I haven't eaten many of these unhealthy foods for years (though, most still all taste the same in the end!). 6/10

3. Significance
The need to feel important, needed, wanted and worthy of love.

Just having 'a problem' makes me more significant. My grandma watches in horror as I devour a whole packet of cookies one after the other, I tell my mom I don't have any control over myself and it's her responsibility not to expose me to junk food. I make special threads on this forum all about me and my problems and ask for attention and advice. 6/10

4. Love and Connection
The need for feeling connected with and loved by other human beings.

Maybe there's an element of that on this forum. Connecting by sharing this problem. 3/10

5. Growth
The need for constant development emotionally, intellectually and spiritually
By having this problem, I'm becoming more aware of my thoughts, feelings and actions in day to day life. 3/10

6. Contribution
Giving beyond ourselves and giving to others.

I'm also trying to share my experiences and advice here. As a personal trainer I hope that my experience with this 'problem' will help me to help others overcome similar difficulties in future.