The Five Drivers, play a big role in the development of the Invented Self, keeping an external focus, managing the impressions of others, difficulty accepting compliments, and the self-statements, “Why do I always do that!” and “I hate it when I do that!’
The first five counter-injunctions listed below are known in TA as The Five Drivers because they “drive” us relentlessly, often underneath our awareness and against our will. Most, if not all, of the other counter-injunctions, can fit into one or a combination of the first five.
Drivers: aka Counter-Injunctions
The drivers and combinations of them are also known as counter-injunctions because they “counter” or neutralize the injunctions of childhood when obeyed. Obeying them keeps us from being triggered, which is why I refer to obedience to the “Safety Net.” When we stop doing these things we get triggered into the primary injunction it was created to neutralize (aka, defense mechanisms).
Be Strong
Be Perfect
Try Hard
Please Others
Hurry Up
Work Hard (Try Hard + Please Others)
Don’t ask for what you need (Be Strong + Try Hard)
Episode 11: Understanding The Invented Self - Part Three