Process-centered Counterfeit: Process-focused

Process-centered is an attempt to clarify what Maslow termed a “different perception of means and ends.” With this, Maslow sought to convey contentment and valuing of the journey, in addition to the outcomes. I add that, as a process-centered individual, you maintain consistent values in regard to process and outcomes. You make choices by a consistent standard: to violate my principles on the way to achieving my goals, even altruistic goals, is unacceptable.

The counterfeit of the process-centered individual is the process-focused individual. You give attention to the process, but have limited vision and expectation that any end results from your actions. You are always doing, but never producing. As a result, the group is hindered from building on successes and learning from failures. Since you unwittingly continue in a process without outcomes, you are unable to share the how with others.

A myopic and incomplete vision causes you to continually think that success just happens, without any necessary attention beyond what you are doing right now. You are content that a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush. You mask your myopia in fatalism or feigned pragmatism. “If it’s God’s will,” or “I’m just enjoying what I’m doing right now,” you say. But, you have left much that was within your power undone. To others, you look like you are the picture of serenity. But, you have neglected to identify outcomes and thus the building blocks to your continual success. You remain blissfully ignorant as to whether tomorrow’s choices contradict the actions of today. Once you happen upon success, you will quiet your conscience then, conveniently forgetting the contradictions you wrought and the problems you created for me and others along your way.

To be truly process-centered, set a vision for yourself that is beyond what you can currently achieve. Plan systematically to accomplish that vision, making your expectations known. Enjoy the journey. Use both small successes and failures to clarify your expectations. Continue to develop, but also challenge yourself to learn more and take risks. The farmer who sows into the ground expects a harvest in due season. She toils not for planting, but for harvest. With each success, reap the consistency you have sown.