Peeling Back the Layers of Change: Neurological Levels

Just like peeling back the layers of an onion, this coaching session on understanding the neurological levels of learning and change proposed by anthropologist Gregory Bateson could be described as tear-inducing! It was definitely more complex than some of the other sessions, and required slow (non-automatic) thinking to fully digest and process. Yet it was also an eye-opening journey.

Here's some of my reflections after letting these concepts simmer and sink in:

Invisible Layers Shape the Visible Ones

At the bottom of this iceberg model lies the layers that are most hidden from view - our models of the world and our identities. These are like the roots of a tree, hidden underground yet providing the source for everything above. As we journey upward through the layers, we encounter values, attitudes, and competencies. These invisible layers, like hidden currents, have a profound impact on the visible aspects of our life: our behaviors, which also ultimately have an impact on our environment.

A Two-Way Street: Impact Reversed

But it's not a one-way street. Just as these hidden layers shape the visible ones, the reverse is also true. Our actions and behaviors (and the results and consequences of those actions) and the environment we interact with can, in turn, influence our core beliefs and identity. This dance of co-creation between the seen and unseen aspects of our life is like a feedback loop, where every step we take sends ripples through the layers, rearranging and reshaping our inner worlds, as well as the world around us.

Dancing with Complexity

Understanding this model isn't an instant revelation. It's a slow process of introspection and exploration. Just like peeling an onion layer by layer takes time, uncovering each layer of our being requires patience and self-reflection.

Much like peeling an onion brings tears, delving into our inner layers can be emotionally intense. Growth often comes with discomfort, as we confront our deepest beliefs and values. But just as tears cleanse our vision, this process cleanses our understanding and allows for transformative growth.

Recognizing these layers equips us with a powerful tool. By becoming aware of our core beliefs and the invisible forces shaping our actions, we gain the ability to initiate deliberate change. This empowers us to align each layer for maximum tangible success.

My biggest takeaway is that life is an ongoing dance of co-creation. We influence and are influenced by the world and people around us. Likewise, we contain inner worlds within us and unique gifts that the world is waiting for us to unleash.