There are two things that need to be done to fix this “groupism”. First, realize its presence in everyday life, this is mindfulness, then broaden your definition to be more inclusive…you need a bigger group. 

Make the group you share big enough and you’ll have no group at all; all will be one, the crooked tree–straight, the cyclist–just another user of the road. Mindfulness is what we have to practice if we are to become the humanity we imagine and dream of…dare I say, the humanity we pretend to be.

So that’s what I’ve been working on lately, expanding my group. Making a conscious effort, whether behind the bars of my bike or behind the steering wheel of my truck, to actually say to myself “just another user of the road” when I see poor behavior in the street. It really helps by keeping this noggin of mine present. Keeping me from short circuiting my power of reason…keeping me in control of these often wicked thoughts and associated emotions.

Try it out, tell me what you think. I’d particularly like to hear from self professed road ragers. Does it work for driver on driver conflict?  

MH