Writing As An Act of Reinforcement
I’m a big fan of looking at both nature and human history as guidelines for living a good life in the present. There’s lots to learn from the people of the past. They lived harder, bolder, more basic lives. They were more in touch with their fundamental nature as creatures of the earth. They had no time for blank slate theory.
One thing we can clearly learn from our ancient past is that words originally functioned as tools. Yes, tools of communication. But also tools for ordering one’s own life.
From the earliest records of human history, there is evidence that words were used by people to remind themselves of basic truths. Our brain is not designed to figure out novel solutions at every moment. Rather, repetition and practice embeds decision making into the fabric of our identity.
Many of the great sages and wisdom traditions of the past also emphasized the importance of remind ourselves of basic truths so that we might be more prepared to act upon them when necessary. Pretty much every sacred tradition includes condensed lists of fundamental rules for life: tips and tricks for living the best human life you can. Many traditions recognized the importance of keeping these rules written down, or reciting them on a regular basis.
It doesn’t stop with religious traditions. Many of the ancient philosophers saw writing (or verbal recitation) as an act of mindfulness and an essential aspect of becoming a great human being.
So how does this relate to us today? It’s pretty basic really: if you need reminders for how to maintain PhaseFrame in your life then read, repeat, write. Starting your own website to discuss your own experiences in being a man in the modern world might be a great way to get started. Read other blogs and when you find something worth remembering, write it down on your own blog, along with commentary.
The more you can internalize behaviors and principles of action, the more they will become a part of you and flow effortlessly from your being.
