Patterns that Block or Distort Capacities

PATTERNS THAT BLOCK CAPACITIES

A pattern is a type of IFS protector which can block access to a capacity. For each capacity, you learn about the patterns that typically interfere with it, and then you can explore which of your parts block that capacity for you. This allows you to do IFS work with each of these protectors to transform it so you have access to the capacity.

For example, here is a list of patterns that may block the Self-Confidence Capacity:

• Underminer Inner Critic
• Taskmaster Inner Critic
• Perfectionist Inner Critic
• Conformist Inner Critic
• Depression
• Pessimism
• Shame
• Self-Effacing Pattern

For each pattern that blocks a capacity, there is a support capacity that aids in the transformation of that pattern (along with the IFS work). For example, for the Underminer Inner Critic, the Courage Capacity supports transforming the Underminer so you can have Self-Confidence. 

DISTORTED VERSIONS OF CAPACITIES

Because we want to have capacities so much for our lives to work, protectors sometimes create distorted versions of a capacity in an attempt to have it. For example, the Pride Pattern is a distorted version of Self-Confidence, where you unconsciously attempt to be confident by feeling unrealistically proud of your qualities or accomplishments or by feeling superior to other people. There are two other distorted versions of Self-Confidence.

For each pattern that is a distorted version of a capacity, there is a complementary capacity that balances the original capacity so that you truly have it and not a distorted version of it. For example, for the Pride Pattern, the complementary capacity to Self-Confidence is Humility, which allows you to have true Self-Confidence.