Wednesday, February 8, 2012

Boundaries –Chapter #5: Cara Tripodi “How Do I Set Boundaries And Keep Myself Safe?”



I like Cara Tripodi’s approach in this chapter.  Apparently her appoach uses a philosophy of “mindfulness.” She recommends developing an “observer” position in which the person steps back and looks at things as an observer would.  Developing a practice of mindful meditation would probably help. Try to disengage for a moment from the passion of feelings and the rush of thoughts.  Try to take a more objective look at what’s taking place.  Then vengeance or the desire to change or control the addict may be less urgent.  The priority of doing what is best for you is more possible.
 She emphasizes the partner taking a path of discovery.  Don’t expect to be able to know how to take care of yourself immediately.  Remember that your first priority is to protect yourself, to be safe and to enable your own healing.  Commit to establishing the necessary boundaries on a “trial and error basis.” 
This approach of staying in the moment and restraining self-criticism would seem to be the logical approach in this type of crisis.  But as she points out, it wouldn’t be easy.

No comments:

Post a Comment