The Transformative Power of Positive Intelligence: A Beginner’s Guide
By Prerna Chandra ·
Over the years, I’ve been restless, jumping from one thing to another, my inner critic overpowering me to the point where I didn’t realize how it was handicapping me. I often doubted myself, and being a control freak added a lot of stress. My obsession with perfection left me drained, exhausted, and burnout was a regular occurrence. Then, I met an amazing positive intelligence coach who introduced me to the concept of Positive Intelligence by Shirzad Chamine. Let me briefly take you through it.
Understanding Saboteurs: Early Formation and Lifelong Impact
Saboteurs form at an early age, often as coping mechanisms in response to challenges and threats. These are the voices in our heads that generate negative emotions in the way we handle life’s everyday challenges. As adults, these saboteurs continue to operate, undermining our self-confidence and well-being. The most pervasive of these is the Judge, which criticizes ourselves, others, and our circumstances.
The Brain: Left vs. Right
The human brain has two hemispheres: the left and the right. The left brain is analytical, logical, and detail-oriented, often associated with critical thinking and judgment. The right brain is holistic, intuitive, and creative, associated with empathy, big-picture thinking, and the ability to connect with others. Positive Intelligence harnesses the strengths of both hemispheres but emphasises shifting from the saboteur-dominated left brain to the sage-powered right brain.
Saboteurs and Sage Powers
Saboteurs are the negative voices that drain our energy and hinder our potential. They include the Judge, Controller, Stickler, Pleaser, Hyper-Achiever, and several others. Each has its unique way of creating stress and self-doubt. On the other hand, the Sage represents our wiser, calmer self, which approaches challenges with empathy, creativity, and a growth mindset.
The Role of the Judge
The Judge is the master saboteur. It’s the voice that criticises you, others, and your circumstances. It amplifies your fears and anxieties, making you feel inadequate and overwhelmed. Recognizing and quieting the Judge is the first step toward positive intelligence.
The Three Gifts: Turning Adversity into Opportunity
Positive Intelligence teaches us to see the three gifts in every situation:
- Gift of Knowledge: Every challenge provides an opportunity to learn something new.
- Example: Losing a job can teach you resilience and new skills.
- Gift of Power: Adversity can strengthen your character and inner power.
- Example: Facing a personal crisis can make you more empathetic and strong.
- Gift of Inspiration: Difficulties can inspire you to make positive changes.
- Example: Health issues might inspire a healthier lifestyle.
Positive Intelligence in Daily Life
Here’s how you can apply Positive Intelligence in your daily life:
- Mindfulness and Self-Awareness: Regularly check in with your thoughts and feelings. Are they driven by your saboteurs or your Sage?
- Activate Sage Powers: Practice empathy, curiosity, creativity, and calmness in your interactions and problem-solving.
- Challenge Your Judge: When you catch yourself judging, pause and reframe the thought positively.
Personal Experience: A Journey of Transformation
I am so grateful to have undertaken the Positive Intelligence program. It has changed me for the better. I have become more confident and self-aware. It has enabled me to shift my mind, especially during times of stress or problems, and helped me see any situation from a different perspective.
Why You Should Consider Positive Intelligence
I highly recommend this program to anyone who wants to bring change in their life, grow, and evolve. By recognising and quieting your saboteurs and nurturing your Sage, you can transform your approach to life’s challenges and opportunities.
Embrace the Change
“Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.” — Winston Churchill
Positive Intelligence has empowered me to harness the strengths of my mind, improve my relationships, and find greater fulfillment in life. If you’re looking for a way to navigate stress, enhance your mental well-being, and unlock your full potential, Positive Intelligence is the key.
Start your journey today and discover the transformative power of Positive Intelligence. You deserve to live a confident, resilient, and joyful life.