The Power of Habit—The Challenge of Choice

»Autobiography in Five Short Chapters« by Portia Nelson from the book »There’s A Hole in My Sidewalk«.

 

This poem beautifully describes the stages of transformation and learning in a simple and concise way. It emphasizes the importance of honest self-reflection, and the power of taking full responsibility.

(emphasis in italics by me)

🕳️ Chapter 1

I walk down the street.
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.
I fall in.
I am lost… I am helpless.
It isn’t my fault.
It takes forever to find a way out.

🕳️ Chapter 2

I walk down the same street.
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.
I pretend I don’t see it.
I fall in again.
I can’t believe I am in the same place.
But it isn’t my fault.
It still takes a long time to get out.

🕳️ Chapter 3

I walk down the same street.
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.
I see it is there.
I still fall in… it’s a habit.
My eyes are open.
I know where I am.
It is my fault.
I get out immediately.

🕳️ Chapter 4

I walk down the same street.
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.
I walk around it.

🕳️ Chapter 5

I walk down another street.

About the Author

Picture of Ondra Veltruský

Ondra Veltruský

Ondra is a Somatic Sexuality and Intimacy Coach trained by and working in the tradition of the Australian Institute of Somatic Sexology (ISS). He guides people to be more present in their bodies and minds, and supports them to make wise choices in the realm of intimacy and pleasure.

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