CHAPTER 2
The Rubber Band Effect
IF YOU STRETCH A RUBBER BAND beyond its intended circumference, it will lose stability and ultimately snap. Humans react the same way.
The Problem
The phrase “I am reaching my breaking point” describes the Rubber Band Effect perfectly. It means we have been pushed beyond our safe comfort zone and we are ready to have an emotional or physical breakdown—or both. Just like a rubber band, once broken, we feel we are left dangling and unable to support anyone.
Another way of describing the breaking point is through Rhonda Britten’s metaphor of a dartboard:
• The bullseye is our comfort zone.
• The next ring out is our stretch zone.
• The next one out from that is our risk zone.
• Go out beyond the risk zone and you ...
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