The “broken windows” theory of policing holds that when a community tolerates minor examples of disorder and petty crime, such as broken windows, graffiti, turnstile-jumping, or drinking in public, people are more likely to commit more serious crimes.
As a law-enforcement theory, it’s controversial. But whether or not it’s true on a city-wide level, I think it’s true on a personal level.
My “broken windows” are the particular signs of disorder that make me feel out of control and overwhelmed.
I’ll give you a list of mine if you continue reading…
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Life coaches have another word for this: tolerations. The word refers to things we tolerate but should not, because they sponge away our energy. Often we don’t even notice our tolerations. We’ve allowed them to go on so long that they become background noise. Eliminating tolerations gives us a sense of control and new energy. It may not sound like much to make your bed every day and to make sure the dishes get done, but it is tremendous.
I think this is a great post. As a therapist, I find that identifying and fixing broken windows is a helpful intervention for both depression and anxiety disorders. Personally, my biggest broken window is being behind on filing. That pile has a radioactive glow to it!