In the mid 70s, Erich Berne wrote the book ‘Games people play’ that captured the imagination of people. In which he developed a theoretical model ‘Transactional Analysis’ to understand and explain interpersonal relationship. Though he could help others to have better relationships, as far as his personal life is concerned, he was monumental failure in his relationships.
Using Transactional Analysis as model, Thomas Harris came up with another book ‘I am OK- You are OK’. It was written for layman in a layman’s style. This too became a best seller.
I have no issues with best sellers, except with the idea that I am OK – You are OK, invariably it gets into my nerves. Last week while returning from Delhi, on the flight one mother with at most seriousness said to her child, “Baby do not cry, others are getting disturbed”. And the child might have been just one month old. Now, how can anyone feel that the mother is OK? If you observe the people around you, you get the feeling that you are in a mental asylum. And if you observe your own behavior, you will be convinced that you are in a mental asylum. Then, why to bluff ourselves proclaiming ‘I am OK – You are OK’? I am planning to write a book “I am an ass – You are an ass”
Before going to bed say in a loud voice, “I am an ass” for five times every night. You will get a peaceful sleep; whatever happened that day will least bother you. Similarly, as soon as you get up repeat the same phrase, no matter what happens that day, you will be cool as cucumber.
Sounds intelligible! Especially the impressing others part! I am waking up to reality these days!
ReplyDeleteYes, quite sometime back I realised that I do everything because of selfish reasons. But never did I think that impressing others is another very torturous part of my life.
I am an acknowledgement seeking "ASS"
Waiting for your book, "I am an ASS, you are an ASS"
Benedict, good get your feedback. I visited your blog, you are more like your Uncle Jerry. Your brother Satish too is in the same mold. I think Jerry has real positive influence on you two.
ReplyDeleteSir,
ReplyDeleteConsidering the fact that I am still living in a hostel kinda setup called "Mansions" here in Trichy, shouting to myself every night that "I am an Ass" shall surely provide me the benefits you illustrated above but will also convince my neighbours and consequently the manager of the mansion that "I am not only an Ass but also a bit psychologically disturbed" !!
However, the logic given seems plausible and worth a try. Would surely look forward to the Ass-book :P
Who knows, your neighbors and the manager of your mansion also will join in shouting. When every one is shouting, then it will be called music and not shouting.
ReplyDelete