Learning something new changes your perspective on what you already believe you know
- Fe Robinson
- Sep 2
- 2 min read
Updated: Sep 3
I’m in the process of deepening my skills in a trauma technique based on neuro-linguistic programming, a protocol called FIRST (Fast Image Reversal Script for Trauma). It stands on the shoulders of past techniques incorporating Visual-Kinaesthetic Dissociation by disconnecting the emotional and physical responses to a trauma memory, replacing the memory with something benign and pleasant.
It is very interesting to be a student once again, and to explore my relationship to being assessed. I am rediscovering my curiosity and pleasure in learning, and my excitement about exploring at depth and finding out how things actually work. I am also noticing my anxiety about getting it right and my quest for perfection, even knowing no such thing exists.
What is also interesting is the new light in which this endeavour is casting everything else I do therapeutically. It’s fascinating to notice continual new connections, contrasts and conundrums as I assimilate new knowledge and it generalises into my depth of understanding of related things. Learning something new changes your perspective on what you already believe you know.
All meaning depends on context. New insights affect the pre-existing knowing. Belief systems necessarily shift to accommodate the new, or they do not, and the new is rejected. Being alive to our propensity to take in only what fits with what we already think is so, so important. Without being aware of this, how would one ever learn and grow?
I am exploring with the concept of beginners mind top of mind. Approaching things both old and new as if I have not done them before is a useful discipline, because I have in truth never seen this client, in this session, being this current version of me before. Having more insight, tools and possibilities at my fingertips is an exciting way to be this autumn.
If you would like to explore anything impacting you psychologically with a curious and caring approach, then get in touch on fejrobinson@gmail.com.
Psychologists emphasize the importance of engaging activities in therapy. Stories help children relate to values more effectively. I recommend reading a story in English with moral. It’s a simple yet powerful way to help kids build good habits and character. These stories complement therapy by making learning fun.