VCoL in action: The active observer

Effective micro-VCoLing requires that we allow a corner of our minds to stand back to observe ourselves and others as we go about our daily activities. My colleagues and I call this corner of the mind an active observer.

All micro-VCoLs™ include an instruction like, “For the next few days, allow a corner of your mind to scan the environment for…” This corner of your mind is the active observer. In order to micro-VCoL optimally, you’ll need to:

  • cultivate your own active observer, and

The ideal active observer

An ideal active observer is able to stay focused on the VCoL task at hand, which can differ from VCoL to VCoL. For example, your observer may be asked to:

  • Observe inner sensations, states, feelings, or thoughts.

It may take some time for your active observer to habituate each type of observing.

Differences between the active observer and other types of observers

There are several differences between an active observer and the kind of observers cultivated in mindfulness or clinical therapy contexts:

  • The active observer may be asked to be neutrally observant, but might also be asked to make judgments.

People who find it difficult to observe without automatically triggering self-criticism or who frequently engage in unhealthy mental rumination may need professional help with creating a healthy active observer.

Summing up

Cultivating a healthy and versatile active observer is essential for optimal micro-VCoLing. As with any skill, the best way to build active-observer skills is to practice reflectively in everyday contexts—with VCoL.

ViP info | ViP rationale

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Award-winning educator, scholar, & consultant, Dr. Theo Dawson, discusses a wide range of topics related to learning and development.

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Theo Dawson

Award-winning educator, scholar, & consultant, Dr. Theo Dawson, discusses a wide range of topics related to learning and development.