Live ACT

Who to Be and When - A Progression of Thought

2012-01-05T12:31:00.008-05:00

Just Think and Remember -

"It's never too late to become the person you might have been." (George Elliot)

"Yesterday is not ours to recover, but tomorrow is ours to win or to lose." (Lyndon B. Johnson)

"What you get by reaching your destination is not nearly as important as what you will become by reaching your destination." ( Zig Ziglar)

"What lies behind us, and what lies before us are small matters compared to what lies within us." (Ralph Waldo Emerson)

If it is to be, it is up to ME!

Sand in Your Shoes!

2012-01-04T11:39:00.005-05:00

A leisurely stroll on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean in the cool of the afternoon. Starfish & sand dollars gracefully floating on the surf... Does that sound like a scene you could enjoy? It is possible...
New View Publications offers intensive training sessions in Applied Control Theory on Hilton Head Is., SC Jan. 16-19, 2012. Understanding & using 'Control Theory' principles provide the skills necessary to find balance in life and "become the person you want to be" in any situation. Does that sound interesting or useful? Information about the sessions can be found at the New View website: http://www.newviewpublications.com/.

"The Gift That Keeps On Giving"

2011-11-30T10:27:00.006-05:00

"Tis the Season" ...as the saying goes, but for what? A season to spread peace, love and joy and to give the gift that keeps on giving. “What gift is that?” you say. The ability to live your life in balance and survive an otherwise "wild & crazy world" is priceless. To be able to perceive the world around you in a way that makes sense and allows you to be in control of your actions is one of the best possible gifts you can ever receive.

"Where do you find such a gift" you ask? It can be opened during training sessions offered by New View Publications http://newviewpublications.com/ and Be-Print for Living, Inc. (http://www.be-print.net/) in the near future. Visit their websites for more information. January 16-19 finds New View hosting a session at Hilton Head, SC and Be-Print's session is in Charlotte, NC March 20-22. Both welcome any and all participants who are interested in learning more. The participatory sessions teach participants the basic concepts of Perceptual Control Theory (PCT) and how to effectively apply them to one's daily life.

Life can be very stressful for many, particularly during this time of year. By understanding the application of PCT concepts, you have the opportunity to “be the person you want to be.” Join us so you too can unwrap that wonderful gift. You will keep it for a lifetime.
Life can be very stressful for many, particularly during this time of year. By understanding the applications of PCT concepts, you have the opportunity to be the person you want to be. Join us so you can unwrap that package.

PCT in 7 Minutes

2011-10-08T18:21:00.010-04:00

Dr. Warren Mansell, University of Manchester (UK) has an excellent explanation of PCT in a "Rubber Band" YouTube video clip that can be found on the http://www.pctweb.org/. The premise of the clip is "You can't tell what someone is doing by watching what they are doing". The clip is a bit difficult to follow at first (low audio & excessive motion), but his explanation from midpoint on is clear & a very understandable. Mansell's study & research sheds new light on the broader subject of Control Theory. Clicking on the title above will take you directly to PCTweb.org.

Another linked YouTube clip "PCT & Cultural Evolution" by Dr. F. T. Cloak makes a visibly clear description of the "Loop" and Power's "Levels of Perception". The beginning of the 16 minute clip references several scientific studies, but quickly explains a simplified internal loop sequence. Following is a progression that clealy shows the interaction of Power's idnetified levels of perception.

Mansell's "PCTweb" site is comprehensive and an excellent reference for understanding PCT from many angles and perspectives.

The Surprising Power of Happiness

2011-10-03T11:06:00.008-04:00

Recently, in a daily entry on the web page "RealAge.com" an article appeared that can easily relate to the basic tenets of PCT and a book by E. Perry Good "In Pursuit of Happiness" (New View Publications, 1987). The article discusses the relationship between a positive attitude and heart health. The article asserts that by employing a daily approach to life with a song like "Don't Worry Be Happy", individuals will live a healthier life.
Through an understanding of PCT and when you look at the theme of "In Pursuit of Happiness", one finds the way to establish that path for positive daily living. Check out the link to RealAge by clicking on the title above.

Successful Board Meeting Held

2011-09-16T11:54:00.003-04:00

Sat., Sept. 10, 2011
The IAACT Board of Directors met for their 2011 annual meeting at the Tega Cay, SC Conference Center. The Board heard from senior faculty members about the origin of IAACT and the opportunities for sharing PCT in the near future. Several initiatives and new areas of growth were discussed. Members were presenteted with information on "Roles & Responsibilities of Non-Profit Boards of Directors". Application of this information to their roles as the IAACT Board was discussed.
The Board also undertook the development of Action Plans that will guide IAACT growth and activity in the near future. Many of the plans include the involvement of the current Faculty Leadership Committees and their perspective on where best to focus effort & emphasis. One of the more significant steps initiated was the addition of a 'General Membership' category. Details will be forthcoming. Stay tuned ...

A Breakfast for Mental Well-Being

2011-08-29T21:00:00.006-04:00

I ran across an article today on RaelAge.com that speaks to positive thinking & outlook on life. The first couple of paragraphs are included below. Click on the title to see the full article. Live Healthy friends.

"Eating a good breakfast doesn't just get your body ready to face the day. It may boost your mental well-being, too. Especially if you choose yogurt.

Newly published research suggests that when you feed your gut fermented foods that contain Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium -- two strains of healthy bacteria found in some yogurts -- your brain ends up with an extra dose of happy-making neurochemicals, too.

From Belly to Brain So just how does healthy flora in your belly have an impact all the way up in your noggin? Apparently good bacteria can actually produce neurochemicals in the gut -- we're talking feel-good chemicals like serotonin and dopamine. And these chemicals, in turn, get taken up into the bloodstream and circulated throughout the body, including the brain. The likely end result: improved psychological well-being."

For more healty news, go to http://www.realage.com/.

Meetings Announced

2011-08-14T19:50:00.008-04:00

The IAACT Faculty Leadership Council (FLC) will meet by tele-conference Tuesday, Aug. 16 at 7:00 PM.

The annual 2011 Board of Directors meeting will be held Saturday, Sept. 10 at the Tega Cay Conference Center, Tega Cay, SC. The Board meeting begins at 10:00 AM. The site of the meeting will be announced this week.

Anyone interested in sharing information or asking question to the FLC or Board can contact Mark Southern at actnme@gmail.com.

The Pink Bat

2011-06-16T09:28:00.003-04:00

Positive Perceptions Provide Possibilities!!! Enjoy & reflect on the Pink Bat (click on the title above).

CSG Announces Annual Meeting

2011-06-15T23:30:00.009-04:00

The Control Systems Group (CSG) has announced the date & location for its 2011 conference. July 27-31 in Boulder, CO. are the date and location for CSG 2011. To receive more information about the upcoming CSG conference, please e-mail Allie at CSGconference2011@gmail.com.

CSG is "a membership organization dedicated to the application of Perceptual Control Theory (PCT) in understanding the purposeful behavior of living organisms". The group's mission is to encourage the application of Perceptual Control Theory within existing disciplines and to foster communication and collaboration among disciplines. Check out the CSG web site listed above.

Fred Good, IAACT instructor and owner of New View Publication, is the current President of The CSG and Glenn Smith, IAACT senior faculty member, from Be-Print & Life Connections is the group's President-elect.

Summer Training Sessions

2011-06-12T22:34:00.004-04:00

Several IAACT endorsed training sessions sponsored by New View Publicatons are being held this summer. Closed session weeks are being held in Fayetteville, Salisbury and Randolph County during June.

An Intensive Training session that is open to interested individuals or groups is being offered in Chapel Hill, NC Monday - Thursday, June 20-23. ACTs I, II & III are being offered. Space is available at this time for all three level courses.

Detailed information about the Chapel Hill event can be found at http://newviewpublications.com/index.cgi?product_id=ACT1_20110620_CH&cart_id=6083042_88103 .

Executive Director Named

2011-03-12T08:25:00.007-05:00

President Glenn Smith announced this week the selection of IAACT's first Executive Director (ED). Mark Southern of Clemmons, NC was named to the position by a committee consisting of Board members and senior faculty. As ED, Southern will work as liaison between the Board of Directors and the Faculty Leadership Committe (FLC) in organizational matters, promote IAACT's mission, encourage active member participation on FLC committees, manage the day-to-day affairs and facilitate a strategic planning process that meets IAACT's growth goals.

Southern has been involved with IAACT for ten years first as a workshop participant, attained certification, participated in the Faculty-in-Training Boot Camps, and now provides training in a course titled "Rational Thinking in an Irrational World". Mark has been active in numerous IAACT activites and trainings in his time as an organization member. He brings to the position experience as an educator and long-time school administrator, successful sports coach and support group leader, advisor and facilitator for several organizations. Being actively involved as a deacon and teacher at his church, part-time technology facilitator for an elementary school in Winston-Salem and president of his son's lacrosse booster club (ASU) keeps Mark busy. However, his interest in the application of PCT in his own life and sharing that knowledge with others inspired him to offer his services to IAACT as Executive Director. Southern's motivational theme for IAACT is TEAM - Together Everyone Achieves More. He will encourage active member participation as an essential element for the healthy growth of IAACT.

Questions, suggestions and volunteering to serve on IAACT committees are encouraged. Contact Mark at actnme@gmail.com, msouthern6@triad.rr.com or 336-813-8484.

IAACT Reorganizes Structure

2011-02-15T11:16:00.006-05:00

Prior to the annual Hilton Head Intensive seminar hosted by New View, the IAACT faculty held a two day retreat and business meeting. As a result of the meeting, a new organizational structure has been implemented.

In association with three members of its Board of Directors, the faculty has redefined how IAACT will operate. An Executive Director (ED) will be hired to act as the operational manager of IAACT and serve as liaison between the Board and the Faculty Council. Selection of the Executive Director was given to an adhoc committee of Board members and current faculty. Announcement of the ED will be made in February. Eight standing Committees have been established with the goal of involving as many faculty and general members as possible in active decision-making and group activities. Each committee will be chaired by a faculty member who will then serve on the Faculty Leadership Council (FLC).

The FLC and the ED will work together to manage the day-to-day and instructional services of IAACT and the Board of Directors will provide oversight and directional guidance for the organization. The new structure is designed to increase member participation, improve global awareness for IAACT & develop efficient internal management.

Current members and Intensive Seminar participants will soon receive a letter from current President Glenn Smith outlining the changes and encouraging active involvement.

IAACT Faculty Meeting Announced

2010-12-31T08:56:00.006-05:00

January 14 & 15, 2011 - President Glenn Smith has announced an IAACT Faculty Meeting and sharing session for Friday & Saturday, Jan. 14 & 15, prior to the New View sponsored Intensive Seminar at the Hilton Oceanfront Resort, Hilton Head Is., SC.

Friday's activities will concentrate on two areas. Faculty members will participate in sharing sessions with focus on areas/clients they are currently working with to share PCT instruction. The second part of the day will be spent with a presentation of the new IAACT organizational structure and its implication for members. Discussion of the changes will follow.

On Saturday, several faculty members will present more in-depth formal looks at their particular area of expertise as it relates to presenting 'Control Theory' concepts. The purpose of these presentations is to provide more understanding of and tools for faculty as they share PCT concepts. Social networking and reconnecting activities will take place each evening following the meeting sessions.

All faculty members are invited and encouraged to attend both sessions. Housing is available at the Hilton Oceanfront Resort (use New View rate) or at area hotels (your call). For more information or questions, contact Glenn Smith at reactnot@aol.com.

Thoughts on Elizabeth Edwards

2010-12-07T14:58:00.004-05:00

As the word of the seemingly imminent death of Elizabeth Edwards has surfaced on the national and local news, I am struck by her approach to this tragedy of life. Mrs. Edwards is taking the high road - if you will "bumping it up" - as she approaches the end of her life.

We are all aware of the underlying stories that have surfaced over the past 10 years form the Edwards family - some good and some tragic. Throughout, Elizabeth Edwards has been a pillar of strength and a role model for us all.

The most recent press release from the family in Chapel Hill with Mrs. Edwards own announcement of the situation is heart-warming, courageous and symbolic of a person who is living out what we as practitioners of Control Theory believe. Listen to her words: "The days of our lives, for all of us, are numbered. We know that. And, yes, there are certainly times when we aren't able to muster as much strength and patience as we would like. It's called being human." "But I have found that in the simple act of living with hope, and in the daily effort to have a positive impact in the world, the days I do have are made all the more meaningful and precious. "

Edwards goes on to reflect on her life and the what is positive in it for herself, her children and family. She has looked at the circumstances of her life and has decided to "be the person she wants to be" and needs to be to leave a positive legacy.

I have no knowledge that Elizabeth Edwards ever attended an IAACT intensive seminar where 'Control Theory' was shared. What is evident is that she embodies the characteristics that are the foundation of PCT and lives them in her daily life.

As this post is being written, TV and radio shows are airing details of Mrs. Edwards' life and approach to impending death due to cancer. What courage & resolve she shows. Bravo Elizabeth Edwards! I grow stronger as a person because of you. Our prayers and good thoughts are with you and your family.

New View Announces Intensive Seminar Dates

2010-11-20T19:53:00.008-05:00

New View Publications will host their annual Control Theory "Intensive Seminar" Jan. 17-20, 2011 in Hilton Head Island, SC. Seminar sessions for ACTs I, II, III & IV will be offered to participants. Registration information can be found at http://www.newviewpublications.com/index.cgi?page=workshops.html.

New View will also host a Take Charge! training session Jan. 21-22 at the same location. Information can also be found at http://www.iaact.com/training/schedule.html .

Both trainings are co-sponsored by the International Association for Applied Control Theory (IAACT) at the Hilton Oceanfront Resort.

A Point to Ponder

2010-11-04T21:57:00.004-04:00

Food for thought: "What Happens to us does not have to define who we are." Consider how you deal with life.

Rethinking Teaching and Learning

2010-10-18T10:26:00.006-04:00

Lately I have been thinking a lot about how new information is learned, and why other information is not learned. I should first say that my definition of learning is that a person has acquired knowledge or a skill that can be recalled months later in a different setting. Of course this is not really measurable in a classroom, but it is my goal when I teach a student. I want them to recall something I taught them when in a college class or talking with their parents one night, etc. One of my pet peeves is students telling my that I learned it but forgot it. My question is that if we forget something, was it really learned in the first place?

This leads me to the question that is always on a teacher's mind these days, how do students learn? My original teacher training was in Constructivism which basically says that all people construct their understanding of the world. Learning occurs when a person is confronted with their own misunderstanding and replaces that misunderstanding with a truer understanding. My understanding in PCT takes this to the next level. In PCT thought, a person learns when they encounter error and choose to educe that error by changing a reference (replacing an old understanding with a new one).

In order for this to happen, several things need to occur. The first is that students need to have error about their own misunderstanding or lack of knowledge. This is incredibly difficult to do in a lecture style classroom. Even in a lab or hands-0n environment this can be difficult to achieve because it presupposes that a student cares about the knowledge. I think that this is why we need to tap into a student's beliefs. If a student does not see a need for the knowledge, even if they have some sort of error about the knowledge, they can always say, "Well I don't really need this anyway," or something similar.

This brings me to the next point, once a student has an error about their understanding of the world, they need to do an action to correct it. Teachers assume that students come to them with the tools to learn. I hear many students say that so and so teacher does not teach in a way that I can understand. I wonder, though, in this climate of testing, testing, and more testing which leads to cover, cover, and cover that we have forgotten to teach students the tools to learning. How do you learn in a classroom that is being taught in a style that is contrary to the method you best learn? How do you learn when you are depressed because your boyfriend just dumped you? How do you learn when the kid next to you keeps distracting you? In my experience, many students do not know how to take notes in a way that helps them, let a lone how to learn despite distractions. As professionals we have found our own ways or had parents or other adults that taught us strategies. Where is this taught? Where does a person learn the tools of learning?

In all, I guess what I am proposing in this long blog is a different way of looking at teaching and learning. Instead of teaching kids content, maybe I should be creating a classroom of discovery where students' beliefs about themselves and the world are looked at and encouraged or challenged. I should then focus my teaching on tools of learning so students have actions that help them reduce the error in their systems that also lead to learning.

Live Healthy - My Choice

2010-10-07T10:29:00.004-04:00

Choose to live & be healthy - it is YOUR right & privilege. "If its to be, its up to me."

Four Agreements for the Classroom

2010-08-23T10:09:00.004-04:00

The beginning of a new school year is both an exciting and a challenging time for all concerned. Turning the page to a new chapter in life holds anticipation and uncertainty for students and teachers alike. Sharing a common purpose and goals creates the conditions for a successful year. Shelley Roy has shared the following article that can assist teachers in creating those positive and productive conditions. When student & teacher agree on their purpose, progress and growth are much more attainable.

Four Agreements for the Classroom
By Shelley A.W. Roy

When Miguel Ruiz wrote the FOUR AGREEMENTS, he once again brought the importance of forming agreements with ourselves to the forefront. As the school year begins across the U.S., educators and students alike are contemplating the upcoming school year. Fall is often a time of reflection and reorganizing our lives after the hustle and bustle of a summer of adventure and vacation.
In successful classrooms, teachers and students are members of a team. Individually and collectively, they ask and answer three basic questions during the team-forming process: "Who am I?" "Who are you?" and finally, "Who are we?" In answering these questions, in building classroom agreements, teachers and students build a firm foundation for the upcoming school year. I believe that the most effective agreements are formed at the principles level of life. This is the level that answers the question, "Who do I want to be?" It is not the level that answers, "What am I going to do?" It is the level of opportunity, not obligation. It is the level at which I shift from thinking, "I have to do such and such." to "This is an opportunity to be the mother, daughter, educator, I want to be."
The four agreements that form the foundation for the school year are personal, social, role and goal agreements. The teacher and every student in a class must have a personal agreement that answers the question, "Who do I want to BE?" As they answer that question, they need to remember that they can’t possibly be everything. They need to limit their lists to three to five principles they want to use to measure their success. For example, my top three BEs are wise, generous, and spiritual. The list is used to self-evaluate who a person is being. The number one life skill is self-evaluation, and responsible self-evaluation measures how being aligns with agreements with self and involves evaluating what is within a person’s control. On a regular basis, a person needs to ask, "What did I do today to live my principles?"
The second of the agreements, the social agreement, answers the question, "Who do we want to be when we are together?" After we have each developed a personal agreement, after we are each clear on how we want to BE, then collectively we need to come to consensus on how we want to treat each other. To form a social agreement, we all must have a sense of connection to everyone else in the group, and there must be a modicum of trust amongs group members. In a school, social agreements may typically be summarized as, "We want to be learning, be respectful, be responsible and be safe."
The third type of agreement, the role agreement, answers the question, "What is my role in getting us where we want to go?" In our family car, whoever sits in the shotgun seat (front seat, passenger side) plays the role of navigator. This has been our long-standing family agreement. In a classroom, it is best if all the adults and students involved in the room are present during role negotiation. The process of
discussion and compromise used in determining roles lays the groundwork for a successful school year during which many hazards and obstacles are avoided. Role clarification allows students to know what to expect and helps develop a safe-risk environment.
Goal agreements, the fourth and final kind of agreements, infuse district and state standards with students’ needs for relevance. To develop meaning and relevance in content learning, and to enhance students’ commitment to learning, teachers and students together develop essential questions for each of the major units of study and for the year. All learning is personal and constructivist by nature, and essential questions, if they are thoughtfully developed, encourage personal engagement with content. Students who are engaged and challenged, students who see real value in what they are learning, are more interested in learning and create fewer distractions in the classroom. Student goal setting moves easily toward student led conferencing.
When these four agreements are included in the beginning of the school year, processes then creating rituals and routines that highlight these agreements becomes the basis of effective task and relationship management in the classroom. Agreements take the guesswork out of expectations; they make what for many is implicit, explicit.

International CSG Conference 2010

2010-07-08T16:43:00.007-04:00

The 2010 International Control Systems Group Conference will be held at the University of Manchester, UK (England) on Saturday, July 24. 2010 marks the 50th anniversary of Perceptual Control Theory's initail presentation. Warren Mansell of U Manchester is the conference host.

IAACT faculty members Denise Pappas and Fred Good will be in attendance at the conference. Fred Good will be presenting his paper "A Connected School: Improving Schools and Communities from the Inside Out" to the conference. A copy of Good's paper can be read on line at http://pctweb.org/ along with other information about the conference.

The PCTweb site has many interesting connections to various autheors and practitioners. Check it out...

'Connected School' Highlighted on the Web

2010-06-20T19:02:00.008-04:00

The Connected School program has been recently highlighted on a NC High School web page. The Atkins High School School of Pre-Engineering (Winston-Salem/Forsyth County) web page has a link specifically dedicated to the Connected School program. View the site by clicking on the title link to this article.

Principal Doug Gerringer and Academic Advisor Leslie Eaves are both IAACT certified and operate the Atkins SOP using control theory principles. Atkins SOP students have been recipients of both state and national awards. Mrs. Eaves was recognized recently as on of five educators nationally to receive the Building the Future Award presented by the 3M Company. Eaves is a member of the IAACT Faculty. Thanks Atkins for sharing your focus on becoming a 'Connected School' with the world and congratulations on your successes.

Reclaiming Futures Forsyth County - Mina Cook

2010-06-14T21:35:00.008-04:00

Mina Cook, IAACT faculty member and co-author of "Who To Be", has been named project director of Reclaiming Futures Forsyth County, NC. Mina was recently highlighted and interviewed on local Triad, NC television news (WXII, NBC 12). Reclaiming Futrues is a national organization dedicated to giving a second chane to individuals who have found themselves caught in the judicial system.
Click on the title above to view the Reclaiming Futures Forsyth Co, NC site.

Transition Team to Meet

2010-05-07T16:11:00.002-04:00

The IAACT Faculty Transition Team, created at the March Faculty retreat, has set a date on May 18 to hold it's first meeting. The charge of the team is to create a process for IAACT to move forward and share Control Theory concepts and strategies. The "Team" will plan a course of action & present its findings to the Board of Directors, Executive Council and the faculty when their work is completed. Stay tuned for more info from the TT!

Board of Directors Hold First Meeting

2010-04-18T23:01:00.003-04:00

On Sunday, April 18, the IAACT Board of Directors held their first meeting in Clemmons, NC. Fred Good and Glenn Smith facilitated the meeting. Board members were given the IAACT Faculy Handbook & history notebook. Glenn & Fred also updated the Board on recent changes that were initiated at the March Faculty retreat.

Among topics of discussion were the role and organizational structure of the Board, transition of authority from the Executive Council to the Board of Directors and methods of reporting progress on grants & programs already in place. Board members asked clarifying questions and immediately contributed ideas that will streamline IAACT activity & support for faculty work. Board members agreed to "take it slow & grow" with well thought out procedures & practices.

Board members are:
Nancy Dixon, Mt. Airy - Chair
Kathy LaFone, Hillsborough - Treasurer
Mark Southern, Clemmons - Secretary
Bertha Caldwell, Winston-Salem/Forsyth Co. Schools
Sherri Trotter, Randolph Co. Schools

Success Comes With Effort

2010-03-26T11:43:00.006-04:00

IAACT held it's first annual 'faculty retreat' March 18-21 at the Caraway Conference Center (NC). Twenty-three faculty members participated in the retreat. Activities for the first day and a half were led & facilitated by Dr. Joseph Johnson of Fayetteville Satate University. Dr. Johnson challenged participants to take a look at themselves and rebuild group connections. As a result of his leadership, the group recrafted IAACT's Vision & Mission statements.

The last two days of the retreat were spent sharing what individual faculty and groups were doing with the PCT concepts we believe in. A 'Transition Team' was also created to work out details -for presentation to the full faculty- as a part of the reshaping of IAACT's operations. Watch for more information from the Transition Team.

Tick, Tick, Tick...

2010-03-16T21:38:00.002-04:00

Faculty Retreaters,
Set your clock (for Thursday evening), check your luggage (all clean undies), bring your "What I am Doing" 'share & tell', be ready for an enlightening & informative weekend of interaction. And, by all means, do not forget to do your homework - reading (or listening to) "The Speed of Trust". There is a lot of language in "TSOT" that parallels and reinforces what we teach.

See you Thursday evening. Don't forget your toothbrush!

BE-Print Book Released

2010-03-05T13:56:00.009-05:00

Glenn Smith and Shelley Roy's Book: Creating Your BE-Print - Drafting Your Personal Blueprint for Living has been released by Five Crows Publishing as of March 1, 2010. You can preview the book by going to the BE-Print for Living web site at http://www.be-print.net/. Below is the description offered with Lightning Press:

The BE-Print is a document and a process that asks the reader to look deep within and explore their depths. "Just as an architect needs a blueprint to build a structure, a person needs a BE-Print to build a life.” There are two problems facing most people: they do not apply self-discipline to creating the life they desire and most people have no clue what criteria on which to evaluate themselves. If this criterion does not exist, individuals are prone to evaluate others, worry about how others evaluate them, and evaluate what is happening to them. With BE-Print, the focus shifts from others to you and who you want to be in any given situation. What makes this approach to personal exploration different is its strong foundation in scientific research on human behavior — Perceptual Control Theory (PCT) along with the latest thinking on learning, change, leadership, and organizational development. The focus of this book is on this moment forward and helping you handle the vicissitudes of life. This book is not about digging into your past but digging deep within yourself. It is about living in the now with an eye on the future. While reading you will engage in self-evaluation and self-reflection, trying to pull from within you the person you want to be. Unlike other self-help books this book does not provide rules to follow or strategies that apply in a limited number of situations to specific problems; instead, it helps you become the best you in EVERY situation.

Call for Retreat Information

2010-02-24T20:42:00.004-05:00

Glenn Smith has requested IAACT Faculty Retreat participants complete & return to him the documents & information requested before March 1. The information provided will assist our facilitator, Dr. Joseph Johnson, lead atendees in the first day and a half of activities. Glenn's email is reactnot@aol.com.

A call has also gone out from Mark Southern for participants to submit their plans to "Share What We Are Doing" with the group during the Saturday session. Group and individual presentations will take place and sharing at a "Museum Walk" of group tables will conclude Saturday evening. These presentations will lead to Sunday's "one-on-one" small group circles. Email Mark at msouthern6@triad.rr.com with you topic.

If you have not forwarded your conference deposit, those go to Fred Good at the IAACT office.

The IAACT address is PO Box 1046, Carrboro, NC 27510.

Evaluation Capacity

2010-02-03T12:06:00.002-05:00

Hi all. The evaluation capacity project is moving along. After a first round of classroom observations it was clear to those who conducted them that the "instrument" was only marginally useful. Several reasons were noted by interviewers. Spending a class period in a classroom was not enough time to ascertain whether a teacher was actually using many of the strategies learned in ACT. "Bump it up" questions would not be observed in a classroom that was well managed and where students were behaved and on-task, as was the case in the classrooms we observed. It was generally agreed by interviewers that we should design an instrument (questionnaire) for teachers and for principals that would go along with classroom observations. It was also generally agreed that the classroom observation questions should be more open ended and that the comments section should offer more room for comments. So we have now revised the classroom observation instrument and have developed two questionnaires to go along with the observations.
A new round of observations and interviews are being scheduled for the third and fourth weeks of February and the first few weeks of March. Any faculty member interested in helping with these interviews should contact me at nview@aol.com.
Thanks,
Fred Good

New PCT Site On-line

2010-02-02T10:35:00.006-05:00

A great new web site dedicated to Perceptual Control Theory (PCT) has been created by Warren Mansell and his students at the University of Manchester, UK. The site cover various aspects of the history and applications of PCT. Bios of leading PCT practitioners and teachers are highlighted. References are made to the influence of PCT on several disciplines and aspects of life. Click on the title above to link to the new site.

Practicum Facilitator Training Process Changes

2010-01-31T11:52:00.004-05:00

Barnes Boffey, Director for Professional Development, recently announced a significant change in the 'Practicum Facilitator' training process. Beginning Jan. 1, 2010 those wishing to become IAACT Practicum Facilitators will complete competencies outlined in "Competencies for the Unified ACT I & ACT II Practicum Facilitator". Information about the unified competencies can be obtained by contacting Barnes at barnes_boffey@alohafoundation.org.

Faculty Retreat Update

2010-01-31T11:38:00.006-05:00

The call has been made by President Glenn Smith for IAACT faculty attending the March 19-21 retreat to submit their conference deposits. All payments (deposit - $125 for residential atendees; $45 for commuters or full - $250 & $90) should be directed to:
IAACT, c/o Fred Good PO Box 1046, Carrboro, NC 27510 as soon as possible.

We are excited to announce that Dr. Joseph Johnson has agreed to serve as retreat facilitator. Check out his web page at http://faculty.uncfsu.edu/jjohnson/ . Attendees are in for a treat in meeting and working with Dr. Johnson.

The conference agenda is being finalized with major emphasis on reconnecting, 'mapping IAACT's future' and 'sharing what works best'. Make plans to join us March 19-21 to strengthen bonds & grow IAACT. If you are still interested in attending the retreat and have yet to make that commitment, do so today. Your time will be well spent.

BE-Print Training Announced

2010-01-19T08:36:00.006-05:00

BE-Print for Living, Inc. is joining Life Connections, Inc. and IAACT, Inc. in facilitating an ACT I (BE-Print I) and ACT II (Be-Print II) training in Charlotte, NC on Tuesday - Thursday: March 16th, 17th, and 18th. Mark your calendars now. Information on registration for this training, applying for scholarships, and agency rates can be obtained from Glenn Smith at 704-332-7278 or e-mail reactnot@aol.com if you have any questions. This training is approved for Professional Certification Credits.

Connected School Training @ Hilton Head

2010-01-18T11:09:00.004-05:00

"A Connected School" training took place on Hilton Head Is., SC Jan. 18-21. Participants from California, Indiana, Nebraska, New York, North Carolina, Vermont, and London, England joined together under the leadership Perry Good and IAACT faculty to further their understanding of Perceptual Control Theory ideas and practices. AND, after four years, the weather was great! Don't you wish you were there? Have you ever seen the Loop drawn & described in the sand? It was an impressive site.

Intensive Training Seminar - Jan. 18-21

2010-01-10T19:02:00.006-05:00

Are you tired of the cold, snow & being inside all the time? Relief is here and now - join us at the Hilton Head, SC Intensive Seminar Jan. 18-21. The sessions for ACT I, II, III & IV are held at the Hilton Oceanfront Hotel on HH Island. Strolling on the beach, soaking up the warm coastal sun and relaxing. Doesn't that sound better to you? Not to speak of the insight and extent to which you will have a deeper understanding of Control Theory. What a great deal!

Information and registration information can be found at http://www.iaact.com/ , email info@newviewpublications.com or by calling New View at 800.441.3604.

Peace On Earth

2009-12-20T07:44:00.001-05:00

Let it begin with me... What better way to spread "peace" than to show it to others through my actions. Share the gift.

Frantic Frenzy or Merry Memories?

2009-12-08T19:06:00.006-05:00

Tis the Season to be Jolly . . . or Is It?

What a challenge we could face if the potential pressures of the season are allowed to creep into our heads. On Black Friday, I ventured to the Mall to return a previously purchased item. My trip was not a part of the mass hysteria of the day after Thanksgiving - I chose not to let the adversticing hype lure me.

I did however experience the angst of the day in the "full to the brim" mall parking lot. Every aisle, every space, every driver jockeying for a spot. My choice was to cruise up & down until I found a mom & daughter leaving & "jamming" bags into a totally packed trunk.

Inside the mall store, as I stood in line to return my item, shoppers checking out had obviously not embraced Control Theory philosophy. Frustrated, anxious and persistently arguing why "Early Bird" prices were no longer being accepted (at 1:00 pm) - Oops! Thankfully the cashier/sales rep. remained calm and tactfully courteous.

I returned my item, thanked the cashier, wished her a Merry Christmas and walked away passing more frantically busy shoppers with arms full. I smiled, went to my car and bequeathed my highly prized parking space to the first car in a long line of potential bargain hunters. My, what we put ourselves through to be "happy" during the Season of Joy.

Merry Christmas All...Remember the real reason for the season.

You Can't Tell What Someone is doing....

2009-11-02T13:39:00.002-05:00

"You can't tell what someone is doing by looking at what they are doing." If you have been through the ACT training, you are probably familiar with this phrase. I can't stress to you how much these words have come back over and over again to haunt me. I think that I understand it, then something happens and BAM! I am assuming I know what someone is doing, thinking, or believing based on what they are doing and acting on that assumption (positively or negatively).

Normally, I try to repeat this phrase to myself to remember that, although I can make assumptions about someone, I really cannot know what a person is controlling for when they do something. Usually, this helps me take a step back and assess a situation before acting in a mean or derogatory way. As my principal likes to say, "I am good at until I am not."

Just recently I have had the sad experience in life of loosing a friendship in part because we both forgot this universal truth. You probably have a similar story, she gave me unsolicited advice in area where I told her to give me space. I made assumptions and fired off an e-mail. She made assumptions and fired one back. I made assumptions and fired off an even nastier one. Before you know it, we are both stuck in our world of assumptions, too angry to talk to the other person. (Isn't e-mail great!) There is a lot more to the story, but suffice it to say I wonder what would have happened if I took the time to look at it from a different perspective instead of believing that I KNOW what she was trying to do. I wonder what would have happened is she took a step back and re-thought how she thought about me and my boundaries or intentions. Life is certainly filled with I wonders!

The good thing that has come out of this is that I understand on a deeper level the importance of approaching the world from the perspective that we don't know what someone is doing. I can't stop myself from making assumptions; it is part of who I am. What I can do is to stop myself before acting on them.

Choosing Connection and Cold Chicken

2009-11-01T20:12:00.000-05:00

This evening, a friend and I went out for dinner. Nothing fancy, really, just a simple dinner at Boston Pizza. I ordered the Chicken Parmesan and he ordered the Cajun Chicken rice bowl. His food arrived piping hot and mine stone cold.

I found this annoying even though this sort of thing happens ALL the time in ANY restaurant in town. For the past 15 years, enjoying a nice meal out with a friend is hit or miss. Knowing that this happens all the time and expecting it to occur, did not help keep me in balance; error was still present.

However, I refused to return the dish. I forced myself to eat the breaded chicken breast covered with tangy tomato sauce and cheese with a side of boiled frozen vegetable; all of it cold.

Informing the waitress of the situation did not help my error. I tried to justify to her why I informed her of a problem but then refused to send back to the dish. It was an awkward conversation, to say the least, and by the end of it, my error had grown.

All of a sudden, I realize that what had happened really didn’t make sense to me either. Why was I eating a disgusting meal, complaining about it and refusing people the opportunity to fix it? What was it I was trying to get? What’s more important here?

As I was walking out the restaurant door, it came to me. I valued eating at the same time as my friend and sharing a meal together much more than I cared about what I was eating. Once I realized this and said it out loud to my friend, I felt a lot better.

The things we do for connection, eh?

Introductions: Hello fellow ACTers

2009-10-28T20:50:00.000-04:00

My name is Jason and I am a teacher of a grade 2 class in

Canada

. This year, I have the opportunity of working with a child who has been labeled “autistic.” I am quite excited about using my understanding of PCT and ACT to help Sophia "be the best she can be." I've also decided to blog about it.

I invite you to check it out: PCT and a Student with Special Needs (link below and to the right)

My contribution to this blog will be posts of "A-Ha!" moments while my blog will be updated weekly. I hope to generate discussion so please feel free to comment and share your ideas.

In the meantime, here's an excerpt:

"I always start my school year with the “Connected School” lesson plans. I use the first two weeks to create classroom beliefs, rules, and a list of “jobs” for students and teacher. In control theory terms, what I am doing is creating common reference perceptions at various levels of perception in order to have everyone connected.

I made sure Sophia, who is autistic, was present for all these lessons. I also made sure to call upon her to participate and share her ideas. It made no difference to me whether she actually spoke or contributed. What was important to me was that she was exposed to the info and activities and that she in some way experienced them. In control theory terms, humans learn by experiencing something, then labeling that experience and finally self-evaluating. I could expect other students to experience and label at the same time, but I was not expecting that from Sophia. I only wanted her to experience the lessons. I would label her behaviour afterwards throughout the school day. I was also controlling for Sophia to feel a connection to everyone in the class at some level of perception."

Observations, Questions and Comments of a Mad Pregnant Woman

2009-09-15T13:37:00.002-04:00

Hello All, I have been absent for sometime from the blog. As many of you know, I am expecting my first child in January. This has left me forming many new loops in my brain as I accommodate for this important change in my life. All this change has left me with so many PCT thoughts and questions that it is hard to put them into words.

First, I have found it interesting rediscovering myself as hormones course through my body. For most of my adult life, I have a reference at my principles level that I want to be a peace maker. This series of loops usually has me compromising and maintaining calm, sometimes to my detriment. However, it is important to me to be this person, so when in conflict, I find myself "bumping it up" to this loop. Recently, though, I had a couple friends tell me that I seem to be a little feistier than usual. After reflection, I would have to say they are correct. I still do try to be the peace maker, but when that doesn't seem to work I go into "Feisty Girl" mode. Everyone says that it is the hormones. My question is how, in terms of PCT do the hormones effect the brain chemistry and therefore which loops/levels I operate on?

Another mind blowing thought has been centered on the loops that my child is forming while growing in the womb. I never thought about this before, but as I read about the development of a baby in-utero I am amazed at the loops that are already forming. We usually combine the lowest levels into one category, called, Sensory. Already my child can distinguish light from dark, she can taste, hear, and touch (as evident by all the kicking around I am experiencing). I just find it amazing and how necessary it is for her survival to start these before coming into the world. I then wonder, is she forming categories from these senses as her brain develops? What about sequences? We know that babies in the womb test their movements; they can "play" with the umbilical cord, and other things with their limbs. Don't they need sequences to perform these actions? It was always a wonder to me that we have proven that by a child is 2 years of age, they have (in some form), all the different levels of perception in place. Of course my thoughts were that everything started outside the womb. From the perspective that forming loops starts even before a child enters the world, I can see how this miracle is accomplished.

"Shift" Happens

2009-09-01T22:12:00.006-04:00

When faced with shaking your comfort zone & moving into the unknown - or at least the fog - it is reassuring and rewarding to witness when positive "shift" occurs in people around you. This week I witnessed such a positive internal realignment on the part of two co-workers.

One is an ACT III trained career teacher who was "reassigned" to the role of a Primary Reading Teacher (not the lead teacher role she has known for the past 12 years). The initial 'erk' was big and hard to swallow for this very caring and sensitive teacher. Using what she knows about Control Theory & the Loop, the adjustments made and ability to change her reference. Her reference shift & attitiude was "this is going to give me the opportunity to interact with and help more students with far less stress". Choosing a positive approach has eased her initial pain.

The second teacher is not ACT trained, but clearly understands the fundamental concepts of self-evaluation & redirection. School has been in session for only one week; the room is set and bulletin boards & instructional goals are in place... UNTIL... On Thursday afternoon this career teacher was presented with a wonderful yet "status" shattering opportunity. Her room will soon be transformed into the technological classroom of the 21st Century. Talk about upsetting the applecart - new tools, new techniques, new room arrangement, new instructional direction. Most would have a "hissy-fit" and question "Why now, why this; I'm already set & prepared?". Amazingly just the opposite occurred. In our conversation - just after the classroom visit - the response was "You know, I'm thinking this is going to work. This is going to be a good thing for the kids; we can do it!" What a positive shift in thinking again choosing to seek a new reference.

What amazing strength and insight on the part of both these ladies who when looking into the the eyes of the evil "change monster" faced with an unbelievable challenge and to seek a new reference midstream. It's wonderful to see someone "bump it up" to a higher level to resolve a conflict at a lower level. Understanding how to deal & react in such situations is healthy.

Benefits of Applied Control Theory

2009-08-05T09:45:00.004-04:00

The following is from Sam Melchior, Evansville, IN.

During my 24 years of teaching I have attended dozens of workshops, professional development seminars, and read numerous books concerning many areas of education. In June of this year (2009) I attended ACT (Applied Control Theory) I. Without question it is the best training I have ever attended. The reasons are numerous, but most importantly to teachers is that it shows you specifically what you can do from day one to make your classroom the best it can be. You will be given specific methods to help with difficult situations that arise, and more importantly, how to prevent difficult situations from ever occurring. One of the great things about the training is how active it is for the participants. It is not a series of presentations by “experts” where you are just a passive listener. Many activities are incorporated to demonstrate how Applied Control Theory works in the real world. The participants get numerous opportunities to practice the specific methods and to discuss how the theory can be applied to their own situations. I am writing this approximately one month after attending ACT I. Fortunately, New View Publications is here in Evansville conducting training for teachers and other professionals from this area. I am participating as a casual observer during this training as a refresher before school starts. I hope to attend ACT II in January and Act III next summer.I must admit after a tough school year I was exhausted and not very enthusiastic about the upcoming school year. After the training in June I found myself looking forward to the new school year, confident in the fact I now have scientifically proven methods to help make our school a “connected school”, which means it is the best it can be.

2009-07-21T10:25:00.001-04:00

Starting the School Year
I just finished reading an article on emotions that Bill Powers wrote. It is available in the book PCT A Book of Readings a free downloadable book available at www.livingcontrolsystems.com . A few of the articles in the book will be of special interest to IAACT folks. Some are more technical, others are very user friendly. (Jim Soldani’s article for example). As I read the article on emotions, I was struck by the wonderful simplicity of PCT. As an instructor, we are often asked, “Why did/does 'so and so' do 'such and such'?” the short answer is because they were experiencing error. However, what I think most folks really want to know is how to change the ‘such and such’.

In his article, Bill explains that “Under normal circumstances, behavior comes about for one of two reasons: either there is a disturbance which changes some perception and thus generates an error signal, or there is a change in the reference signal demanded by some higher control system, which change also generates an error signal.” This answer perhaps better addresses the answer to how do we change ‘such and such’. If we want a person to change the disturbance (environment) needs to change or they need to want (reference) something different.
As most of you begin the school year, this idea becomes very important. Spending time at the beginning of the year to clarify references addresses both reasons for behavior changing. It changes the environment and it provides different references. Remember that disturbance is anything in the environment over which I have no control that is having an effect on what I want (what I am control for). Disturbance is either helpful or hindering. When I think of disturbance, I often think about young children around the age of two, the classic age of ‘me-do’. When we perceive our actions as helping and they perceive them as hindering. Children of this age are often seeking independence and they view our helping as hindering their desire for independence. The same also can be said of middle school students, and seniors who are often control for independence and our actions are perceived as hindering them.
When we are building connections at the beginning of the year, we are laying the groundwork for less error throughout the rest of the year. I think we are also doing something else, we are trying to shift the reasons for why we do what we do - ‘Bump it up!”. As Jim Miller, founder of Warrior Concept International wrote; “We have a choice. We can be ‘nice’ to others because it’s proper manners to do so because we expect to get something from them, or because we have to live with them. Or, we can treat others with respect and honor because we recognize that we are already connected to them in some way.” (http://ezinearticles.com/?Martial-Arts-CHARACTER-And-the-Universal-Law-of-Interdependence---The-Keys-to-Life-Mastery,-Key-2&id=13554 ) Doing what I do because it is who I want to be and because I understand that, I am connected to everyone on this planet is very different from doing it because my elders told me to. One last for the moment the other lasts for a lifetime. Start the year thinking about the lifetime of you and your students, because in the end it will change many moments along the road.

Dealing with "It Is..."

2009-07-20T16:16:00.007-04:00

Life deals us many "opportunities" daily. How we deal with those opportunities determines our health - both mental and physical. The phrase "It is what it is" and how I deal with "it is..." rings in my ears as I write this entry. How I understand and employ the steps of "the loop" in being the person I want to be when encountering these opportunities speaks volumes about my health.

Rising health-care costs, physical therapy, major work projects, continued employment, unexpected family budget items, auto maintenance and inter-personal relations all factor in to creating "loops" that need to be managed in our lives. When they occur simultaneously, management is a bigger, more critical issue. Do I wonder "Is the world caving in on me?" No; not when I understand "it is what it is" and deal with each situation using Control Theory training.

When I look at these events as "it is what it is" through the loop, my action options become more clear and my health is better as a result. Rational responses verses emotional reactions provide a formula for healthy living. A genuine smile that radiates from inside provides an opportunity to share your ACT knowledge with others. Share your strength and strengthen your health.

The Jigsaw Puzzle & ACT Training

2009-07-15T13:55:00.000-04:00

I have a fascination with jigsaw puzzles and am currently engrossed in reconstructing a 1000+ piece puzzle - a very neat but busy montage of the 1960s. It occurred to me as I search for matching pieces that there is a direct connection to this task and Control Theory training & seminars.

Working off a card table, I have limited space for the puzzle and it's component scattered pieces. I am using the bottom of the box and box top to hold the unconnected pieces. Initially, I chose to put the puzzle together by taking a mental picture of the finished product and working from there. Currently there are probably 20 small pictures from the "big picture" that are being assembled inside the frame of the puzzle. Progress is slow - has anyone seen the two border pieces I am missing?

Herein lies the connection - I'm using the boxtop to hold unconnected pieces. I have been working on the puzzle off-and-on for three weeks and my mental picture is now somewhat fuzzy. I can't see the finished product unless I hold the boxtop over my head & stare. My personal challenge initially was to do the puzzle from memory - a conscious choice. It is now time to regroup and "refresh my memory"; I need to have a clear vision of my goal.

So it is with Control Theory learning & training sessions. There are several opportunities this summer and fall to participate in 'Intensive Seminars'. What a wonderful chance to reconnect and get a look at the overall picture of PCT and its applications in our life. Only when we revisit and see how seperate components (Overall Direction, Levels of Perception, the Loop, the Circle of Strength and MOL) fit into the 'big picture', can we again be refocused inspired to continue 'piecing it all together. By participating in these training sessions both we and those we work with benefit. We can refresh our memory of how everything fits together and those we live and work with are able to see and learn from our improved understanding. Sessions are being held across North Carolina in the next few months (and possibly in other areas working with IAACT or Life Connections). Plan to be a part of one of these events if you are new to 'Control Theory' or already familiar with the ACT experience. Contact New View or Life Connections for more information.

CSAP Grant

2009-06-25T15:59:00.002-04:00

Our grant application to begin the process of building evaluation capacity within IAACT has been approved. The Center for Substance Abuse Prevention (CSAP) will oversee the implementation of the grant. We will work in five schools which have elected to participate in this process and are at varying stages of implementing A Connected School and Take Charge! principles and strategies in their substance abuse prevention programs. We will be communicating through this forum as we move forward in this process. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions regarding this initiative or would like to participate in some way.

Thank you.

Fred Good
Project Coordinator

Taming End of School Year Stressors

2009-05-30T08:27:00.003-04:00

It goes without saying that most folks (adults and children alike) look forward to the end of the school year. Yet, that event particularly creates tremendous stress and anxiety on the part of all concerned. In NC the biggest stressor at year's end is known as the EOGs or EOCs - those mandated final "measures" of success. In other states that process lives by other names, but final testing exists wherever there are schools . There are other equally stressful events that come with the closing of the year- packing up, saying 'goodbye', retiring, planning summer jobs or vacations, getting ready for 'next year'. The question bodes "How best can we manage all the anxiety that is created in April, May and June?" The answer-by applying what we know and have learn during ACT training.

Readers and contributors, here is your opportunity to share the methods you employ - as the school year winds down - to remain in balance and perform at your most effective level of proficency. Share how you help your students and colleagues "manage the madness" that is an undesired constant of school life. Fill the page with your ideas and strategies.

Joi de Vivre and PCT

2009-04-14T09:18:00.004-04:00

It has been awhile since I have posted anything partly because life took on a chaotic bent that I am just now trying to bring some order to. Through this chaos, this morning I found myself reflecting in joi de vivre, or what the french call Joy of Life.

In many ways developing an understanding of PCT has helped me to develop a deep joi de vivre. In a very important way, it allowed me to take more joy from my job as a teacher. Before the ACT training, there seemed to be an invisible wall between me and my students. I felt that I had to be something different than I am in order to be a responsible and professional teacher. Not that who I am is all that crazy, just slightly different than the norm. 4 years ago I found myself at a new school with a new principal who had a crazy idea. He wanted to have a "Connected School," and he thought I would make a good first candidate for the ACT training. Since that first training, I found some of those walls that I had put up start to come down. I found myself sharing more of myself with my students... more of my personal stories, my eccentricities, my fears and successes. As this happened, I found that my students started to open up to me. I was able to be the mentor that I always wanted to be but was always scared to try. I have said on many occasions that PCT has allowed me to be the teacher that I always wanted to be. Because of this, I have found more joy in job and in turn in my life.

I write all this here because I was curious about other stories people might have about how PCT has transformed their life. I believe that there is great truth in the telling and sharing of stories. Stories gives us a different perspective and layers of Truth from which we can derive wisdom. I invite all of you out there is cyberspace to share your PCT story so that we can learn from your Truth and experiences.

MOL questions

2009-04-01T10:48:00.003-04:00

Hello everyone. Tim Carey has agreed to answer questions relating to the Method of Levels (MOL). We are going to try to use this blog for that purpose. If you have a question for him, please post it as a comment and he will respond.
Thanks,
Fred Good

From Shelley Roy - How Life Maintains Itself

2009-03-12T22:09:00.001-04:00

How life maintains itself: Chaos and fractals in human physiology by Drs. L.E. Pihiajmaa-Glimmerveen http://www.glimmerveen.nl/LE/chaos.html is a wonderful article that is filled with PCT ideas! One of my favorite parts is when they say “We can even suppose that chaos in the functioning of our body means that all is going well, but that tight regularity means not all is well…” I found this very interesting as we often think in PCT that we want zero error, which we all know is not possible. This article however supports the idea that our system is beautifully designed to be in a constant state of shifting… where awareness follows error. For me knowing that no two instances will ever be identical just like no two snowflakes are identical is and exciting prospect.

Longevity & "In Pursuit of Happiness"

2009-02-20T11:02:00.005-05:00

I am continually listening and looking for ‘control theory’ connections to share with others. Particularly poignant for me has been Perry Good’s book “In Pursuit of Happiness”. One of the book's first lines states "Happiness is a by-product of leading a balanced, varied and satisfying life which meets your needs”.
On NBC’s Today show (Feb. 20), Matt Lauer hosted a segment that caught my attention. It was about “Blue Zones” found around the world by National Geographic and AARP where people are documented to live much longer than normal. Watch the five minute segment, http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/26184891/vp/29299258#29299258 , and see if the connection is there for you also. What a wonderful way to ‘sell’ the concepts of Control Theory by providing folks with the prospect of a longer, happier life. Live in balance and laugh often.