Choice Theory

“If everyone could learn that what is right for me does not make it right for anyone else, the world would be a much happier place.”

― William Glasser

In the realm of psychology, various theories attempt to explain human behavior and guide individuals toward a more fulfilling life. One such theory that stands out is Choice Theory, developed by psychiatrist Dr. William Glasser in 1965. His perspective emphasizes personal responsibility, the power of choice, and the interconnectedness of our thoughts, feelings, and actions.

Choice Theory is based on the premise that all behavior is purposeful and that individuals have the power to make choices that influence their lives. It posits that our thoughts and actions are interconnected, shaping our perceptions of the world around us.

There are several concepts that can lead to increase satisfaction with life and improve mental wellbeing.

At the core of Choice Theory there are basic needs - fundamental human ones like survival, love, belonging, power, freedom and fun. According to Glasses all behaviours are purposeful, basically we drive our behaviours from these needs and our choices are made based on the motivation of fulfilling them. So in order to increase our satisfaction in life we need to increase our awareness on these needs and how they are addressed.

Relationship habits - it is a way of people to take control of and be responsible of their own behaviours. The theory speaks about 7 connecting habits when it comes to relationships that can be used to improve all our connections. We are talking about supporting, encouraging, listening, accepting, trusting, respecting and negotiating differences. The opposite Glasser identify also 7 Disconnecting Habits that are based on external control and they can be the distraction of relationships - and these are: criticising, blaming, complaining, nagging, threatening, punishing, bribing or rewarding to take control. When we are talking about healthy relationship is important to be aware of these and choose if you want to use Connecting or Disconnecting Habits.

Then we have the concept of Quality World - representing the individual personal vision of an ideal life. This consists of people, activities, beliefs, and situations that bring satisfation and happiness

Quality World is a concept from Choice Theory that represents you individual personal vision of an ideal life. People, activities, beliefs, and situations that bring satisfaction and happiness are part of this vision and aligning your choices with your quality world is the path to personal fulfillment.

Acting, thinking, feeling and physiology are compress under Total Behavior by Dr. Glasser and the 10 axioms of Choice Theory say that all your behaviour is your best attempt at the time - with the informations you have at your disposal at that point. That means that the only person whose acting, thinking, feeling and physiology you can control is our own person. While we choose the total behaviour the direct control is only on acting and thinking in order to have a fulfilled life and take care of our wellbeing.

So whatever you decide in your life take into consideration what is your choice to make your life beautiful.

Photo by Elena Mozhvilo on Unsplash