Getting Off Psychological High Center

The tall grass prevented the driver from seeing the high spot in the pasture ahead. The family station wagon was not really designed for this kind of off-road travel and as the front tires passed over the top of the bump, the frame of the car settled firmly on it leaving all four tires spinning freely in the air.

After the initial shock, it was a humiliating and helpless feeling for the driver as he stepped out and surveyed the situation

Hung on high center occurs for many individuals in other areas of their lives. Things seem to be going smoothly, goals are being met, until suddenly the individual find himself lifted out of a comfortable and controlling existence into a tractionless position, going neither forward nor backward.

Stress began to build. Anger set in. Stepping down harder to gain momentum was useless; so were ambivalent urges to more backward or forward in this unfamiliar position. Psychic energy burned up. Much was caused by anxiety. Finally, energy fuels were depleted.

What went wrong? Bumps previously encountered on the road of life were minor as shock absorbers softened the blow. Why now? Even if the pasture didn’t have a beaten path to follow, why was it so different from other traveled routes? After all, he had always been told, “Nothing ventured, nothing gained. No guts, no glory. Stay out of other people’s ruts by making your own road. A risk has to be taken here and there.” Is high center the reward?

The driver resorts to brainstorming and problem solving. What can get him going again?

• The first thing to do is calm down, relax, step back and look at the problem from different angles. The mind has a wonderful way of finding solutions. Worry, anger, and fear lead to confusion, bitterness, and the inability to see possibilities. A calm, relaxed assessment allows creativity and confidence to return.

• Next, quit focusing on the mistake and turn instead to remedies.

• Commit to the belief that there is a solution.

• Make a list of possible approaches. Don’t discard even the most improbable solution at this point. A “hair-brained idea” might be the answer.

• Apply the solutions in a systematic fashion, knowing that if the first one doesn’t work, you have another try. Consider combining tow or more possible solutions.

• Take a break periodically and assess your progress. Don’t rush. Take adequate time to apply the possible solutions thoroughly.

The family station wagon driver found some fieldstone and built up the area beneath the rear tires. He then removed some of the earth from beneath the car’s frame. Rocking back and forth, from forward gear into reverse, he was able to dislodge the auto from its perch and move forward. Then carefully and slowly he followed his tracks back to the road.

With a sigh of relief, and a feeling of accomplishment, he reminded himself to learn from his experience.

Harold H. LeCrone, Jr., Ph.D. Copyright © 1992