Research has determined that we are constantly talking with ourselves, even though we are not conscious of this running internal dialogue that fills our head. This steady stream of self-speak is our ongoing encounter with the things we see, hear, and experience, stimuli that is translated into words that become patterns of conditioning and thought. This self-speak can be positive and empowering, or negative and defeating. Either way, it is what generates our emotions and activates our behaviors. Words are not just words. They are inner directives flowing just under our surface of awareness.

Comes from the Greek dichotomia, from dichotomos, divided, from dich-, in two + temnein, to cut.

My own research shows that the process of dichotomous analysis, one of the main tools humans seem to use to make maps, has a set of properties that are often projected onto the object under analysis, leading to the confusion of map and territory. Here is the list of properties, taken from "The Sense of Dichotomy":

The Principle of Dichotomy

A fundamental tool used in prediction is the derivation of a classification system. In Western civilization, we can trace this back to the works of Aristotle (1) and the concept of dichotomy. A dictionary describes dichotomy as:

"1. (logic) division into two classes, one positive, the other negative. 2.(botony) a mode of branching by repeated bifurcation"

Your ongoing mission is to become aware of your self-speak so you can recognize and rechannel the stream that is running your feelings and behaviors. The ancient text of the I Ching uses the imagery of Wind over Water, which suggests that the rippling waves reflect all the moods of the skies. Watch your words, for it is your self-speak that creates your experience and helps you crest.

You must be master of your mind rather than be mastered by your mind.

Act as if you are serious about attaining your dream. Walk, talk, and act enthusiastically, creating a single-minded attitude of success toward the results you desire.