Johari Window
The “Johari Window” is a tool that helps people better understand their relationship with themselves and others. It was created by psychologists Joseph Luft and Harrington Ingham in 1955, and is used primarily in self-help groups and corporate settings as a heuristic exercise. Luft and Ingham named their model “Johari” using a combination of their first names. It is also a useful tool to inform right “Set & Setting” for work in holotropic states and illustrates why it is important to embark on the inner adventure.
The more we can increase the square of authenticity, at the same time decreasing the size of the other squares, then the less demanding and more at peace our life can be. But it has to be safe and this is where right set and setting comes into its own. This will include committing to confidentiality, being a supportive, silent witness for someone speaking their truth, listening from the heart where there’s no judgement, opening up to asking for, and receiving, feedback.
When you live as fully as you can in that space of authenticity, life can be rich, deep, nourishing and flowing. It can put you in a place where, having filled up your own glass, (and that is your responsibility and part of your work), giving unconditionally becomes part of the flow. Being in the flow is not draining. It is invigorating but there are lots of things we can put in the way and the energy can get stuck and heavy. “What changes do I need to make that will facilitate me living an authentic life?”
In the square of Façade ones energy stores can be depleted very quickly. Being something you are not because of what significant others or societal norms expect of you, not growing that seed of your unique potential within, is a dishonouring of your sacred self. Wearing masks for different people can also dishonour those you are in relationship with – they don’t get to see your true self. Masks are worn for many reasons including; to cover up self-perceived deficiencies, hiding ones light under a bushel, to hide the shame of past wrong doings, to hide the sadness of deep grief, to please others, to project into the world the collective idea of success and to protect. It all takes up so much energy. The reduction of the size of this square is enabled by a supportive, encouraging and accepting (without judgement) circle of allies. “How would my life be different if I could share all of me, my light and my shadow (things I suppress, repress and deny), without fear of rejection from those around me?”
In the blind spot one can get lost in repeating patterns of unhelpful behaviour which attract unhelpful responses from others – patterns that were laid down in the deep past to help you just get by and survive. Being able to receive feedback is the main way the blind spot can be reduced. It is not easy to give feedback in a way that it can be received. Depending on how it is done, it can be very often seen as criticism due to life’s conditioning, and aren’t we so just, our own worst critic. It can also be a huge gift releasing hurtful patterns and frustrations. Reducing the blind spot can reduce the amount of energy expended in trying to reach a goal or enjoying your relationships.
Who knows what is in the square of unknown potential but it is a certainty that it is limitless. A question to consider is “How can I let, what is in this square for me, into my life in a way that supports my reason for being?” You can bring it home through self-discovery, shared discovery and being able to receive support from others and by doing so, can bring about abundance in all its forms.
Adventuring in holotropic states with right set & setting can support the growth of authentic living and being. By going inside to meet and bring home those hurt parts, which can sabotage you manifesting your true potential, you clear the way to connecting with your own inner healing wisdom.