What Goes on Inside

Quadrant I reflects our inner world that which others cannot see. In order to find out about what’s going on here we need to ask someone. It includes the world of feelings, thoughts, attitudes, world-view, thinking, concerns, and beliefs. A lot of territory is covered here much of which includes what James Flaherty calls our structure of interpretation or SOI. Our SOI represents our basic sense of or beliefs about the world. Is the world safe, can I trust other people, am I worthy of love and support etc. So in essence it’s about our personal self-awareness, self-management, and vision for our future.

To the degree that we are self aware and skillful in these areas we will also feel competent in the world, confident in our abilities, able to recognize and manage our emotions, will feel comfortable in our own skin, and have a vision for our future that we are confident that we can reach.

Those who are not skillful in Quadrant I may not be in touch with their feelings nor have the skills to manage them in such a way that they can achieve their goals and have satisfying and supportive relationships. Not having the skill to deal with uncomfortable feelings such as anger and sadness those with addiction problems may turn to substances to numb themselves and gain some control over their feelings.

Many have an inner critic that will not allow them a moments peace and berating and second-guessing their every action and decision. This constant negative chatter can lead to depression, a lack of efficacy, and a sense of hopelessness in the world about one’s ability to be a productive and happy part of society. Again, seeking relief from this unrelenting negative voice people may turn to alcohol or substances for relief.

I’ve worked with a number of families in which the parents are struggling in Quadrant I leading to relationship issues with their spouse and/or issues with their adolescent children. Many of these young people have little self esteem, may be doing poorly in school, have no clear vision for, or are conflicted about, their futures, are struggling in their communication with their parents and have little inner support or skills to deal with the difficult feelings that they are experiencing. This leads many to choose substances for relief and a sub-culture in which they feel confident, understood, and supported.

For coaches, inquiry into Quadrant I includes questions about what individuals are experiencing, their patterns of feelings and thoughts, what they want in the world and do they think I can get it, and how they deal with difficult feelings and circumstances that arise in their lives. In integral work a coach might develop self-observations and practices that help the individual become more aware of and competent in these areas and may draw from models such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotional Intelligence, or mindfulness practice to support skill development and confidence in dealing with their inner world.