We want positive change but we have a hard time making it happen. We are met with resistance from others or become paralyzed by our own fears and confusion. When we do initiate change or desire things to go a certain way, they frequently unfold in an unexpected and undesirable manner. As a result, we become disoriented, discouraged and frustrated.
Change is rarely a straightforward process and we are likely to face the undesirable and unexpected along the way. We can only navigate through change if we make full use of our basic biology, which wires us to effectively navigate the world. That biology is made up of our beliefs, emotions, senses, and thoughts. These work in tandem so that we can acknowledge emerging conditions, evaluate them, and take responsive action.
Our biological navigation systems are mostly out of practice, however, because in our modern culture we do not utilize our senses effectively, we do not process our emotions fully, and because we are prone to intellectual denial. What makes matters worse is that in adopting the norms of our modern society-along with its belief systems and modes of operating-we actively hijack our navigation system. All of this prevents us from moving toward positive change-as individuals and as a society.
Another Way: Navigating Toward Positive Change
is a user manual of our internal navigation system. It does not matter if you are reading this book because you are going through a life transition or because you are trying to change the world. The process that must take place in each case is the same. The book and the exercises at the end of each chapter will help you through your own personal journey.