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Tools of PMA Science

Toolkit: PMA, Stoicism, Psychology

I’ve been asked if thinking is difficult and my answer is yes.

It has been a question I have asked, and I have gotten more answers about what it isn’t than what it is.

Let’s take a look at Carl Jung’s famous quote.

“Thinking is difficult, that is why most people judge” – Carl Jung

Like many people, I have always loved this quote, but it turns out he never actually said it. However, he did say Thinking is difficult, therefore let the herd pronounce judgment!, which may explain the misappropriation. Jung’s similar quote appears on page 46 of ‘Flying Saucers: A Modern Myth of Things Seen in the Skies’, first published in English in 1959 and later included as part of the Collected Works of C.G. Jung – Civilization in Transition – Volume 10.

As a result of the above quote in 2019, I began reading in order to find out whether Jung was right or wrong. As such, I’m presenting the following toolkit on this blog to enlighten us with tools from Jung, Freud, Rene Descartes, etc. For example, I recently read about Descartes’ concept of “Cogito Ergo Sum” which translates to “I think, therefore I am”. This concept suggests that by doubting our own existence, we can come to the realization that we exist.

Furthermore, Rene Descartes was an avid reader of Stoicism, as I describe briefly in my book The Stoic Journey: Traveling to Learn Emotional Control.

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When it comes to thinking for oneself, there are many different approaches one can take. However, one combination that has proven to be particularly effective is that of psychology, positive mental attitude (PMA), and stoicism.

Psychology is the study of the mind and behavior, and can be incredibly useful in helping individuals understand themselves and their thought patterns. Positive mental attitude, on the other hand, is a mindset that focuses on optimism and positivity, even in the face of adversity. Additionally, Stoicism emphasizes the importance of living according to reason and virtue, and accepting whatever life throws at you with equanimity.

When these three approaches are combined, individuals can develop a powerful toolkit for thinking for themselves. Here’s how it works:

  1. Psychology helps individuals understand their own minds.

By studying psychology, individuals can gain a deeper understanding of their own thought patterns and behaviors. For example, they may come to realize that they tend to dramatize situations or that they struggle with anxiety. Armed with this knowledge, they can begin to make changes and develop healthier thought patterns. With this understanding, individuals can work to identify the root causes of their thoughts and behaviors and develop strategies for addressing them. Additionally, by recognizing their own patterns, they can be more mindful of how they respond to situations and be better equipped to make positive changes in their lives.

  1. PMA helps individuals stay positive and focused on their goals.

When individuals adopt a positive mental attitude, they are better equipped to deal with the ups and downs of life. Instead of getting bogged down by setbacks or failures, they are able to stay focused on their goals and maintain a sense of optimism. This can be incredibly helpful when trying to think for oneself, as it allows individuals to stay true to their own values and aspirations. Having a positive attitude can help individuals to think more clearly and make better decisions. It helps to keep them motivated and focused on their goals, even in the face of adversity. Plus, it can have a positive effect on their physical and mental health, as it reduces stress and encourages them to stay balanced.

  1. Stoicism helps individuals accept what they cannot change.

Finally, stoicism can be incredibly helpful in teaching individuals how to accept things they cannot change. By focusing on reason and virtue, individuals can learn to let go of things outside of their control and instead place their attention on what they can control – their own thoughts, behaviors, and reactions. This can be incredibly helpful in allowing individuals to think for themselves. This is because it frees them from worrying about external factors and allows them to focus on their own internal compass. Reason and virtue provide a framework for making decisions and taking action. By learning to rely on this internal compass, rather than external influences, individuals are better able to make decisions that are in their own true interest, rather than in the interest of someone else. This can help them to become more self-reliant and self-sufficient.

When these three approaches are combined, you as an individual can develop a powerful toolkit for thinking for yourself. By understanding your own mind, staying positive and focused on your own goals, and accepting what you cannot change, you can develop a strong sense of self. This will enable you to make decisions that are true to your own values and aspirations. So if you’re looking to think for yourself, consider incorporating psychology, a positive mental attitude, and stoicism into your own approach. You can overcome obstacles and achieve your goals by applying psychological principles such as self-determination theory and a growth mindset.

Share which tool you are currently using or browse articles on this site to learn more!

Cheers,
Jay Pacheco

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