Chapter 7: The Transcendence Model

Overview

Common explanatory threads have been running throughout the descriptions of the various types we have explored in this book. This chapter reveals that these threads are not random but make up a simple tapestry or model ”a powerful model that will help you understand yourself and others around you at work and at home, and help you change in ways you want to change. In fact, this chapter s discussion of the model bears within it the seeds of the rest of the book, which will help you understand the opportunities you have to move beyond fear to freedom in your work and life.

I certainly rely on this model every day. I use it to guide my thinking during conversations with clients . It prompts me to ask myself such questions as:

• What is this person afraid of?

• What does this person not want to face?

• What is this person resisting?

Moving toward answers to these questions helps me understand clients central challenges. It also helps them gain a broader perspective of what prompted them to come to see me.

A model, according to one definition, is a simplified description of a system to assist with predictions . The accuracy of a model correlates to how useful it is. I would call my model very useful because it does accurately predict people s behavior. Clients see themselves in it.