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There is a saying Mind itself is responsible for mans binding (in the cycle of birth-death or happinessunhappiness) and Liberation (from the cycle of birth-death or in getting the spiritual experience of Bliss and
Serenity which is beyond happiness-unhappiness). The personality defects in a person is responsible for
unhappiness, whereas his qualities are responsible for happiness and contentment. The qualities or defects
seen in an individual are reflection of qualities or defects in his sub-conscious mind.
For leading a happy life, and for effective spiritual practice it is essential that the personality defects in an
individual are destroyed and qualities are imbibed or developed. In obtaining/experiencing happiness or
contentment ones personality defects themselves are main obstacle. Also they are the main obstacle in the
efforts for attaining the God, that is, in ones spiritual practice. The more personality defects are the more are
the mistakes in individual and collective spiritual practice and the more the mistakes are the farther away one
is from the God. Hence, to avoid this, it is essential to remove personality defects.
In the article published in previous Sanatan Prabhat, all the theoretical information was given. Based on that
article seekers made efforts to study various situations in their daily life at individual, family, work/office,
society and spiritual levels. They determined their personality defects and gave auto-suggestions. In next few
weeks we will give practical information about this process. In this series, we will give information about what
is personality, qualities and defects, action and reaction, the definition of removal of personality defects,
some misconceptions about the process of removal of personality defects, the reasons for seekers not
starting this process and the four steps out of total eight steps in this process.
We pray that seekers and readers realize the importance of removal of personality defects by studying the
given points and may the obstacles faced by them in this process be removed and their personality defects
are removed and they are able to lead a happy life.
The Subtle department seeker in Devad ashram fought using subtle weapons with Mantrik in a seeker Mr.
Dhairya. The Mantrik manifested during the war. Before going to Lord Shiva (after becoming good) he told H.
H. Dr. Athavale, I became victim of crooked desire. Due to my personality defect I committed sins and was
cursed by Shalyarushi. Hence I was stuck in Bhuvalok for 24,000 years; but Shalyarushi had also told me
An Incarnation of Lord Rama in Kaliyug will free from this curse. That is why we are meeting today and I am
freed from curse.
Misconceptions about the process of removal of personality defects
After reading the previously published article on this topic, many seekers gave various reactions some of
which are given below
1. Not accepting personality defects in us
When one talks about a person, then both qualities as well as defects are included. Then why should one
think about ones defects, we will think about only qualities. We do not have many defects so why should we
think about them now, asked many seekers.
[Due to not accepting that we too have defects in us they did not make efforts to overcome them.]
2. Disappointing attitude
Many seekers felt that I have so many defects, then how can I tell others about my defects. I am not eligible
to be called a seeker. Some seekers started making efforts but mistakes were committed in it, as a result lot
of time was wasted. They were disappointed because of not studying why it took so long in this process.
3. Negative attitude
Many seekers thought, I havent improved after doing so many years of spiritual practice, there is no hope
now.
4. Feeling the process is very complicated and lengthy
Some seekers felt, this process is very complicated. I have so many defects, if one defect is to be removed
in a week, then how many weeks will it take to get rid of all the defects? These are all psychological solutions
and are work of a psychologist, how can I do it.
A surgeon can remove a defective part from body by doing operation, but a psychologist cannot remove a
personality defect. The person himself have to make efforts to do so. A fitness trainer cannot give strong
muscles to anyone, but the person himself has to do all the exercises to do so. Just as one has to do
exercise for many years regularly to develop strong muscles, in the same way the mind can become strong
after giving auto-suggestions for 2-3 years. Then it helps in smooth spiritual practice.
5. Many fearing that others opinions about them will change (on negative side)
Many seekers feared that If anyone comes to know that I have so many defects, they will have adverse
opinion about me. How will they behave with me then!
At the most, some people in the society may feel that way, but every seeker tells his personality defects to
other seekers to remove the personality defects. Also, many seekers have so many personality defects,
hence such fear is unnecessary.
6. Harbouring an incorrect attitude towards the process of removal of personality defects
1. One seeker had not started the process of removal of personality defects due to thinking, until the subconscious mind does not accept it there is no need to give auto-suggestions. That seeker did not realize that
the auto-suggestions have to be given to become aware of the personality defects.
2. Not realizing that removing personality defects is not just giving auto-suggestions and not feeling like
doing anything further due to not giving auto-suggestions properly and at the same time trying to imbibe
good qualities.
3. Many felt that after giving autosuggestions one will change automatically without making any efforts at
action level.
4. Seekers implementing convenient points and becoming unhappy that there is no improvement in their
personality
Some points to be kept in mind before beginning the process of removal of personality defects
1. Using the intellect one should understand that the personality defects in us are a huge obstacle to our
individual spiritual practices progress.
2. For efforts to happen at action level, the points about removal of personality defects should be properly
understood at the intellect level. Then using the intellect, these points should be repeatedly convinced to the
mind.
3. It is necessary that the points are understood not merely theoretically but one has to understand it to make
efforts practically.
4. It is necessary that one should make sincere efforts to remove personality defects and perform action to
change oneself; but many give auto-suggestions and when the situation arises they do not make any
changes to the action accordingly.
5. Giving auto-suggestions is one of the part of changing ones personality. To supplement it, making efforts
to change ones action too is a part of this same process. One should not forget this. It wont happen that as
soon as one gives auto-suggestions, good thoughts will start coming to ones mind.
6. The most important aspect of this process is filling up the daily chart on time. Without writing it is not
possible to review the action. Hence, give importance to writing on time. The benefits will be realized only
after writing the diary. Many feel that my memory is good so I can remember everything and avoid writing,
due to which they do not understand what changes have occurred or what is lacking. This does not result in
an encouraging process. Writing the daily chart helps in realizing the benefits and shortcomings.
7. Many do understand the importance of writing the daily chart, but instead of writing on time, they try to
write everything at night. One may not recall all events at that time. Also, if does not find time to write, then
one will not be able to write at all. Hence one should give importance to writing on time.
8. While writing one should all mistakes made everyday in the table. However, auto-suggestions should be
given on the selected examples of personality defect. By writing all mistakes in the table it helps in reducing
the mistakes. Hence it is important to write in the daily chart.
9. In any situation one naturally gets reactions in mind, and that itself is minds function. Eg. If good happens
then good thoughts and if bad happens then bad thoughts are generated. Here, as per the situation it is not
necessary that every bad thought will not result in intense reaction. Hence when reducing improper reaction
first try to give auto-suggestion on those events which lead to strong reactions. Many times, some thoughts
occur in mind but they go away quickly, so instead of wasting energy on destroying such thoughts work on
those which are strong thoughts.
10. The auto-suggestion sessions should happen everyday like chanting. If the sessions are irregular then
expected benefits wont occur.
Other reasons seekers have not started this process
1. Feeling that I need not make efforts for removing personality defects, due to not accepting that they
too have defects in them
2. Lack of initiative that if I have not understood the article about removing personality defects, then let
me ask someone about it and understand it properly.
3. Accepting that one has personality defects, but lack of desire to change oneself.
4. Lack of self-introspection or many may not have the desire to do self-introspection.
5. Lack of attitude of listening
6. Not liking the process at psychological level
7. Accepting the theoretical aspects of the process but lack of mental preparedness to implement it
practically
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increasing his kshatravrutti. Due to this process the purification of physical body and subtle body happens in
a very short period.
- Guru principle (28 Mar 04, 3:50 p.m.)
Keep the below attitude for quick implementation of the process of removal of Personality defects
While doing any act under a seva, if one keeps in mind I am doing this for progressing in my spiritual
practice, that is, for attaining the God, then more efforts are made for removing the personality defects;
because here the purpose of the act is clear hence, there is no thought of avoiding the act. If progress in
spiritual practice or attaining God is not the purpose, then thought Let us skip because I dont know how to
do it comes first and is supported by ones personality defects. Therefore, removal of personality defects is a
must for overcoming the obstacles in spiritual practice. But to do so, if one remembers/keeps in mind I must
have the attitude of learning constantly then removing the personality defects becomes easier and the
efforts are also quicker. It becomes very easy to remove personality defects and imbibe qualities by firmly
deciding that I have to learn each and everything for attaining the God.
Step 1 Writing in the diary improper action and reaction
Determine and note each and every improper action and reactions during the entire day (in various
situations) in the table provided in the end without fail. To do so, always keep a note book/paper with the
table in it due to which one will be able to immediately note down the improper action or reactions. This will
also ensure that no action or reaction is missed out. Many write on a piece of paper and later write in the
notebook, this wastes lot time, hence one should write down directly in the diary.
How to write the diary
It is necessary to write the diary as shown below.
Date
improper
reactions
Noticed
by self
action/
Noticed
by others
Period
of
improper
action
/
reactions
Personality
defect
Suggestions
about
proper
action
/
reactions
No.
of
sessions
done
during
the entire
day
Progress
5. Did not shut down the computer at night due to which it was on the whole night.
6. When typing an article on computer, did not save it on time, and due to some problem, it was lost and
had to re-type the entire article and the comment in it again.
7. At work, forgot to convey an important and urgent message to the manager.
8. Did not reach satsang, meeting on time.
9. Did not update the stock after selling books, photos, chanting strips etc.
10. Delayed the distribution of Dainik and did not prepare the report due to laziness
Examples of improper reactions
1. I got angry after a senior officer in my office praised a co-worker. The reaction was No matter how much
work I do and how best I do, the officer always praises him.
2. My father yelled at me in front of guests and asked me to do my homework, due to which I got angry. The
reaction was I went in the study room and threw the books on the table.
3. While studying Maths, I had this constant fear that this time I will get very less grades in Maths, probably I
will fail.
4. A responsible sevak asked me to conduct satsang, I got a reaction how will talk in front of so many
seekers? Due to which I told him I wont be able to conduct the satsang. (We will study this example in the
next Step)
5. One day, I had gone out for 10 minutes from the ashram. My sandals were kept on the back side of the
ashram; so I got a thought I should wear someone elses sandals. Anyway I will come back in 10 minutes,
so there is no harm in wearing someones sandals without seeking their permission.
6. I was about to perform the seva of renewing the membership for Dainik. Just then my mother-in-law asked
me to do the dishes. Immediately I got reaction How can she tell me when I am going out. Would anything
happen if the dishes are not done now itself?
7. When went for advertisements, one person did not give anything. I got a reaction He does not
understand the importance of Spirituality.
8. While preparing report or doing a seva, some mistakes were made. When other seeker told me those
mistakes I got angry with that seeker.
Step 2: Studying the situation, improper action and reactions, and deciding proper action and
reactions in those situations
This is a very important Step in the process of removal of personality defects. The entries in the table should
be studied. One should analyse the improper actions and the reactions that arose in the mind or the one
which one expressed. Then as per that situation, think about the proper actions and reactions. .
Study of improper action
Improper action 1. Example 1: After having tea did not wash the cup.
Study: Here think whether one did not wash the cup due to laziness, one forgot or one feels washing cup is
a low level chore.
Conclusion: The personality defects laziness, forgetfulness or ego respectively are observed.
Proper action: After having tea, washing the cup properly and keeping it at proper place.
Improper action 2 Example 7 - 7. At work, forgot to convey an important and urgent message to the
manager.
Study: There is no awareness that important and urgent messages should be conveyed with responsibility.
Lack of remembering the message and forgetting to convey it to the concerned person, laziness in writing
down the message
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Conclusion: In the above example, personality defects irresponsible, forgetful and laziness respectively are
seen. There is lack of habit of writing down the messages. In short, not acquiring the required qualities as per
the work.
Proper action
1. At work, if one has to take an urgent and important message for someone who is not there, then one
should write down the message in the message book.
2. When writing down the message, once again repeating the entire message to him and getting it
confirmed.
3. Conveying the message to the concerned person as soon as he returns back, and also noting down
in the message book that it has been conveyed
In the above situations, we have shown what would the proper action. Based on the action, one should also
make changes in the mind accordingly. If only the action is rectified, then the improper thought will still exist
in the mind. It is expected here that along with the action, the improper impression is removed.
Part 5
Study of improper reactions
Situation: 4. A responsible sevak asked me to conduct satsang, I got a reaction how will talk in front of so
many seekers? Due to which I told him I wont be able to conduct the satsang.
Study: I had never conducted satsang previously. What will seekers feel if my study of satsang topics does
not occur properly before the satsang due to which I may not be able to talk properly. They will laugh at me.
How will they behave towards me later? What if I wont be able to speak at allM.what if I shiver in front of
themMthen what will I do? Instead, I thought let us not conduct the satsang. Hence I told the sevak that I
wont be able to conduct the satsang.
Conclusion: It is clear that the the personality defects in this instance were fearfulness, lack of confidence,
and lack of instant obedience.
Proper action: Accepting the responsibility of conducting satsang; collecting all the information from an
experienced seeker about how to conduct the satsang, studying the satsang topics, and practicing before the
satsang.
For overcoming the fear of conducting satsang, take it and form auto-suggestions. The seeker should also
study this situation as given below 1. The responsible seeker is asking me to conduct the satsang.
2. I am learning from the satsang sevak about the way a satsang is conducted
3. I have written down the points to be taken in the satsang, and am studying them.
4. I am rehearsing the points aloud that I have studied so that others can understand them.
5. Before the satsang, I am calmly reading the points for satsang again. I remember them by heart.
6. Before commencing the satsang I am praying to the deity (Whose Name I am chanting) with
surrender, intense desire and spiritual emotion (bhav)
7. After the satsang has commenced, I am explaining all the topics calmly and in correct order with
proper examples.
8. After the satsang has finished, I am paying gratitude at the deitys holy feet.
9. After the satsang ended, I realized that while conducting the satsang I could speak without any fear;
that is why I am experiencing Bliss.
Situation: 2. My father yelled at me in front of guests and asked me to do my homework, due to which I got
angry. The reaction was I went in the study room and threw the books on the table.
Study: When my father yelled at me and said, go and study, I got angry. I did not keep in mind that my
exams will begin soon, hence studying would be in my best interests. I angrily went in the study room and
threw the book on table.
Conclusion: The PDs seen here are Getting angry and not handling things properly.
Proper action: As soon as father told me to go and study, I should have thought about it calmly that My
father is telling me to study because I should get good grades in exams, hence it is in my best interests to
study now, and go in the study room to study.
The points to keep in mind when studying improper actions and reactions
1. Study the situation at the time of an event occurred
Generally we like to do a certain activity or do not feel stressed about it; but in certain situations we do not
like to do that activity or get improper reactions in mind. We will see 2 examples of this -
3. While walking on road, if one falls down, and if no one is around the person quickly gets up and starts
walking again. But if it happens in a crowded place or in front of people, then he feels stressed.
4. If a seeker conducts satsang at 3 places in a week. Out of these 3 places, at one place, one attendee
keeps asking lot of intellectual questions. That seeker feels stressed when going to this place.
2 d. Mental state
In the entire day, our mental state is different in various events. Based on it, our intensity of reactions is
Dependant. Some examples are given below
1. In the exams, if one subjects exams does not go well, the student feels stressed mentally, and as a result
if affects his study of the next exam.
2. Our mental state becomes worse if we have an argument or fight with someone. If someone else speaks
with us after the incidence, we speak with him angrily.
Improving ones own mistakes is individual sadhana, and pointing out mistakes of others is samashti
sadhana
Everyone who does sadhana is incomplete. Hence, it is not possible that every time an action will be
paripurna. Everyone can do paripurna action only after reaching spiritual level of 100%. Hence while doing
seva seekers should pay attention to mistakes made by self and by others and rectify those mistakes. In
every event one should tell each others mistakes.
Every seeker observes mistakes made by others; but the seeker always does not tell those mistakes. Here,
thinking I will look at only my mistakes and rectify them is doing only individual sadhana. Teling those
mistakes and making efforts to rectify them on time is samashti sadhana. Still seekers are not telling
mistakes due to incorrect thinking that if I tell mistakes the seeker will fell bad, I make so many mistakes
then how can I tell others etc. Here, one should keep in mind that we are doing every action in sadhana for
attaining the God. If it has to happen then we must do what God expects us to do. God will not like it if we
just look at our mistakes and not tell others mistakes. God will like if one does both individual and samashti
sadhana. Hence, keep the above attitude and rectify ones own mistakes. Also, point out other seekers
mistakes too. Then only our individual and samashti sadhana will happen.
Part 6
Step 3: Determining the basic Personality defect by asking mind appropriate questions and by
analyzing the improper actions and reactions in that situation
In every situation, one should analyse and find the basic personality defect - why an incorrect action was
performed and what caused an incorrect reaction.Following are some points to be kept in mind while trying to
determine the cause of incorrect actions and reactions.
1. To determine the personality defect one should ask mind appropriate questions in the right direction.
2. Some seekers feel, even if there is anything in our mind, no incorrect action is performed by me, hence
there is no need to give any auto-suggestion about it. One should remember that our aim is to change our
attitudes, not just doing a proper action. Eg. In one person, getting angry is his personality defect. Due to
which he says anything he likes to others when angry. Other person also has the personality defect of
getting angry; but his actions are not such that display his anger. Instead, he gets angry mentally only. In
the removal of personality defects, it is important for the first person to rectify his incorrect action of saying
anything he likes to others when angry, and also remove the personality defect getting angry. The second
persons actions are not incorrect, but he should remove personality defect getting angry so as to prevent
getting incorrect reactions in mind.
3. Until the personality defect is removed completely one should avoid loss to the activity with the help of
some other actions. (We will see in details about this below)
Incorrect analysis of the situation and wrong direction of removal of personality defects
One lady seeker in the spread of spirituality had personality defect of anger. Due to which, she used to get
angry with seekers to whom she had assigned seva but they could not complete it on time. Hence she used
to get incorrect reactions when angry. To prevent this, she started giving the below auto-suggestions :
Incorrect auto-suggestion: I will follow up with seekers after assigning them seva to check whether the
seva is getting done on time or not, if not then I myself will complete the seva.
Study of auto-suggestion: After studying the above example, one knows the defect to be anger. In the
auto-suggestion the view is the activity should happen properly, but there is no effort to find the root cause
of it, ie. Why the seekers are unable to complete the given seva. The following could be the reasons seekers
are unable to complete the seva.
1. The seekers capacity could be less, or
2. From the viewpoint of prasar sevikas activity, there could be lack of various things like study of
seva in that Centre and the number of available seekers, priority of seva, available time of seekers
who would do the seva, their skills, seekers capacity, the deadline for completing the seva etc.
It would be inappropriate if prasar sevika herself completes the seva all the time seekers are unable to do it.
The biggest mistake is there are no elements in the auto-suggestion to remove the basic personality defect
anger; that is, the reasons for getting angry are different, and if auto-suggestions are given for the reasons,
then the personality defect will not reduce.
Following are some examples to illustrate how to ask ones mind questions while studying the situations.
Study of incorrect action
Example 1 Rajesh did not wash the cup after having tea
Q: Why did not wash the cup?
Answer 1: Feel lazy to wash cup
Conclusion 1: Laziness is the personality defect.
Answer 2: Forgot to wash cup
Conclusion 2: Forgetfulness it the personality defect.
From the above conclusions, even though the action is one, but the personality defects can be different.
Hence it is necessary to give auto-suggestions based on the personality defect and making efforts is also
essential.
Example 2 Milk was kept on gas stove for boiling, but due to not keeping an eye on it, the milk spilled all
over the stove.
Q 1: Were you doing something else when the milk was kept for boiling?
Answer: No. I was standing there itself.
Q 2: Why you did not realize that the milk was overflowing/spilling?
Answer: Was thinking about something.
Q 3: What were the thoughts?
Answer 1: At that time, I had thoughts like tomorrow I have to go for shopping for my sister-in-laws
marriage. For that I will have to immediately go from work, but before that will have to withdraw money. If I go
after work, I wont be able to withdraw money. In that case, will have to start early tomorrow, banks are
usually crowded. Will have to finish chores early by getting up early. The servant is not coming tomorrow,
she is taking too many holidays these days etc. What will I do? Will be late to come home due to shopping.
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Conclusion 1: The above thoughts are not relevant to the activity of keeping an eye on milk. Hence, her
personality defect would be unnecessary thoughts/thinking.
Answer 2: At that time, I had thoughts like yesterday, I did my work very nicely. My boss will be very happy.
I will get a promotion. My salary will be increased. I will buy such and such things etc.
Conclusion 2: from the above thoughts, they were not related to the present situation. Hence, day
dreaming is the personality defect.
Answer 3: At that time, had thoughts like tomorrow we have lot of guests. Will have to cook for 15- 20
people. I have never cooed for that many people. I have no experience of such things. If anything goes
wrong, what will the guests say..etc.
Conclusion 3: Fear seems to be the personality defects here.
From the above examples, one will be able to ask proper questions and determine the correct personality
defect to work on.
Example 3
Ms. Raginis clothes are kept on hangers for many days. The following could be her personality defects due
to which she does not keep clothes at proper place.
1. Disorganised
2. Laziness
3. Carelessness
Which personality defect is applicable here, study as given in example 1.
Part 7
Study of incorrect reaction
Example 1 - I was about to perform the seva of renewing the membership for Dainik. Just then my mother-inlaw asked me to do the dishes. Immediately I got reaction How can she tell me when I am going out.
Would anything happen if the dishes are not done now itself?
Q 1: Why did you get such reaction?
Answer: I was about to go for seva, and my mother-in-law told me to do dishes, hence I got angry and
reacted.
Conclusion 1: Based on the above, she got reaction due to four reasons told before going to do seva, told
late, told to do dishes and got angry.
Q 2: If you were told to do dishes the day before going to seva, would you have reacted in the same way?
Answer: Yes. Would have reacted in the same way.
Conclusion 2: From the above answer, she got reaction because she was told to do dishes and hence got
angry.
Q 3: Did your mother-in-law told this before in the past?
Answer: Once, just before I was going out, she told me to cook a dish.
Q 4: Did you react like this at that time?
Answer: No.
Q 5: Why you did not react like this?
Answer: I like preparing new dishes and serve others.
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Conclusion 3: From this, the root cause for getting such reaction was she does not like washing dishes,
and getting angry is the personality defect.
Now, let us see Dinus example
My father yelled at me in front of guests and asked me to do my homework, due to which I got angry. The
reaction was I went in the study room and threw the books on the table and said, no matter how much I
study, he always yells at me in front of others about studies.
Q: Why did you get angry?
Answer: My father yelled at me in front of everyone, go and study, so I got angry.
Conclusion: So, due to the personality defect of anger he got such reaction. He also threw the book on
table, which is incorrect action.
The points to be kept in mind when asking questions after studying the situation
1. Study of the situation
Our attitude is extrovert. Hence, when studying a situation, we try to convince our mind that the incorrect
action and the reaction in my mind was not because of my personality defects, but were due to the
situation at that moment and the person involved in it at that time. Some examples are given below Incorrect action
Rajesh: I did not wash the cup after having tea
Incorrect method of writing the situation
I had to complete an urgent work in the office, and had to reach office on time, so I did not wash the cup.
Study: We will realize that Mr. Rajesh, indirectly justified his incorrect action.
Incorrect reaction
Now, let us see Dinus example
My father yelled at me in front of guests and asked me to do my homework, due to which I got angry. The
reaction was I went in the study room and threw the books on the table and said, no matter how much I
study, he always yells at me in front of others about studies.
Incorrect method of writing the situation
My father has habit of yelling without seeing the situation. Hence I got angry when he yelled at me in front of
everyone, and went in the study room and threw the book on table.
Study: Dinu has justified his incorrect reaction. It implies here - it is not my fault, but my father yells at me
without looking at the situation. He yelled and so I performed an incorrect action.
From the above 2 examples, one will realize that if one seriously feels that I should improve then the
situation should be written properly (without justification), and the study should be very clear.
2. While studying the situation, see it from third persons view
When studying incorrect action or reaction one should see it from a third persons viewpoint. It should be how
we show others mistakes, we should have the same attitude towards us when studying our incorrect actions
and reactions. It helps in going into self-defense and also helps in not justifying our incorrect actions and
reactions. It helps in studying it in details. It is useful in determining the actual root cause and the personality
defect.
3. Take help of others in finding the personality defects
Many times we do not realize our own defects. We should take help of our family members, friends,
colleagues, responsible seekers, co-seekers etc.
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3.
The incorrect actions and the incorrect reactions in our mind gradually reduce.
Part 8
Step 4: Preparing a list of personality defects, classifying them and choosing three most intense
personality defects as per priority
1. Preparing a list of personality defects
a. Find out the basic personality defects as shown in the above steps by analysing the incorrect ations
and attitudes during the whole day. Prepare a list. Also note due to each personality defect how
many incorrect actions were done by us and how many reactions were in our mind.
b. A list of personality defects was published before. Out of those, which ones apply to you, make its
list and give auto-suggestions accordingly. In that list, appropriately put a tick mark in the column of
personality defects that apply to us.
Classification of personality defects
After checking the list of personality defects, classify them. Keep the following points in mind while
classifying.
2 a. As per the intensity: Following are the intensities of personality defects
1. Severe
2. Medium
3. Mild
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Examples
Below are two such examples.
1. In the kitchen, if one has a personality defect of Not systematic then others have to complete his
seva. Eg. Throwing the skin of vegetables, keeping utensils at proper place, cleaning up after the
cooking etc.
2. If one has Not systematic personality defect in Dainik or accounts department, then if he does not
keep an important file in the cupboard, then samashti time is wasted till the file is found.
Some personality defects harmful in samashti sadhana
1. Laziness
5. Depressed/Disappoint
ment
9. Suspicious
10. Lack of planning
2. Indecisiveness
6. Not punctual
3. Irresponsible
7. Timid
4. Forgetful
8. Criticising others
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Fearful is root personality defect, then other personality defects arising due to it could be lack of
self-confidence, inferiority complex, etc. Let us see one such example Situation: A department seeker Mrs. Kanchan was told to conduct satsang. At that time, she got a reaction
in her mind how will I talk in front of so many people. Hence she told the department chief I wont be able to
conduct satsangs.
Study: I had never conducted satsang previously. What will seekers feel if my study of satsang topics does
not occur properly before the satsang due to which I may not be able to talk properly. They will laugh at me.
How will they behave towards me later? What if I wont be able to speak at allM.what if I shiver in front of
themMthen what will I do? Instead, I thought let us not conduct the satsang. Hence she told the sevak that
I wont be able to conduct the satsang.
Conclusion: It is clear that the personality defects in this instance are fearfulness and lack of selfconfidence. In the above example, Mrs. Kanchan has the root personality of fearfulness. Due to fear, she
feels lack of self-confidence. Due to lack of self-confidence, she developed inferiority complex of I will never
be able to conduct satsang. Hence, here fearfulness is root personality defect, and lack of self-confidence,
inferiority complex etc. arising due to it will be removed if root personality defect is removed.
4. The personality defects that are with us since the beginning, which are old, become our root defects. Only
after these are removed the secondary defects which are connected with these root defects can be removed.
It takes time for root defect to be removed. One of the root personality defects should be chosen for giving
auto-suggestions.
5. Many times, due to strongly embedded impressions in the sub-conscious mind it opposes accepting the
auto-suggestions. In such situations, choose another personality defect that is not so strong.
Benefits
1. In comparison with the root personality defect, the secondary or later developed defects are removed
early.
2. Due to removal of secondary defects, the saved energy of mind can be utilized for removing other
personality defects.
3. Mind becomes happy.
4. It helps increase faith in the process of removal of personality defects.
Then, after one week, give auto-suggestion for root personality defect again.
6. Many times, more than one personality defects are responsible for an improper action or reaction in mind.
At such times, study the conclusions of all events and choose the most severe personality defect and give
auto-suggestions for it. Let us see one such example Ms. Pallavi commits lot of mistakes in editing and proofreading while doing seva in Dainik office. She
regularly tells those mistakes in the satsang. Ms. Bhakti, another seeker from Accounts department, once
forgot to switch off the fan while leaving the room. At that time, Ms. Pallavi showed her mistake. At that time,
Ms. Bhakti got a reaction in her mind, She herself makes so many mistakes. She is not improving and is
teaching me.
Study: From the above, the personality defects of Ms. Bhakti are forgetfulness, getting angry and not
accepting own mistakes. Ms. Bhakti should study the events written in the table/diary. If, due to forgetfulness
she does improper actions as compared to others, then she should choose forgetfulness on priority basis. If
due to anger she gets lot of reactions in mind, then she should choose anger. If she does not immediately
accept mistakes shown by others then she should choose not accepting mistakes.
Part 10
Step 5: Deciding auto-suggestion as per the personality defect and preparing autosuggestion for the
personality defects
Auto-suggestion is suggestions given to the sub-conscious mind in relation to improper action or improper
thought in mind and improper reaction that arises in the mind.
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Suggestions to overcome personality defects: Every incorrect thought, emotions or actions (as in
behaviour) are due to personality defects. To get rid of these personality defects, one has to give
suggestions regarding every incorrect behaviour.
Techniques to overcome stress caused by defects in oneself
After selecting three personality defects as per the priority, it is necessary to decide a method to form correct
auto-suggestions. Following important methods are used in self-hypnosis
A1.
Psychofeedback technique
Principle : It creates an awareness of all wrong thoughts, emotions and actions and enables one to control
them because of the wording of the suggestion. The suggestion is as follows : Whenever there is any
undesirable thought, emotion or action resulting from defects in my personality, I will become aware of it and
will control it.
It is useful to overcome a wrong action caused by defects such as lack of concentration,
daydreaming, impatience, impulsiveness, laziness, untidiness, non-punctuality, overanalytical, attentionseeking, selfish, indecisive, conservative, corrupt, immoral, disloyal, proud, boastful, overambitious,
perfectionist, suspicious, etc. Wrong actions include addictions such as smoking, drinking, etc. and habits
such as nail-biting, stammering, bed-wetting, etc.
Application of the psychofeedback technique : A few examples are given below.
1.
reality.
Daydreaming : Whenever I start daydreaming, I will become aware of it and will come back to
2.
Impatience : Whenever I am acting impatiently, (e.g. crossing a road impatiently) I will become
aware of it and will act patiently.
A2. Response substitution technique
Principle : In every incident, there is some reaction on the part of a person. The reaction is either
wrong or right. The wrong reaction is because of defects in his personality while the right reaction is because
of his good qualities. When a wrong reaction is substituted by a right one consistently for several months, the
defect is replaced by a virtue.
It is useful to overcome a wrong reaction caused by a short-lived incident causing stress, i.e. an
incident lasting for less than 1 to 2 minutes. The duration of the reaction is not important. Here is an
example. When a father tells his son not to play but to study which makes the son unhappy, the incident of
telling is over within a few seconds. Thus this is a short-lived incident. Even if the son feels unhappy about it
(this is a wrong reaction) for an hour, the duration of this reaction is not important while using this technique.
In this example, the son can give himself the following suggestion to substitute his wrong reaction with the
right one : When my father tells me not to play but to study, I will realise why he is saying so and will start
studying.
It is useful to overcome defects such as criticising others, irritability, short-temperedness,
quarrelsome nature, unrepentant nature, stubbornness, suspiciousness, etc.
A3. Hypnotic desensitisation technique (Imagery in a hypnotic trance)
Principle : The technique consists of creating a scene of successfully facing a stressful situation, in
a hypnotic trance. This mental rehearsal enables a person to overcome the stress.
It is useful to overcome a wrong reaction caused by a prolonged incident causing stress, i.e. an
incident lasting for more than 1 to 2 minutes, e.g. fear of travelling by bus, tension about appearing for an
examination, uneasiness about attending a party, impotency, etc.
It is useful to overcome defects such as lack of perseverance, lack of initiative, reservedness, lack
of self-confidence, submissiveness, timidness, feelings of inferiority, etc.
6 B.
Techniques to overcome stresses caused by a situation, e.g. defects in others, a tragic
condition of others, etc.
B1. Stresses where something can be done to overcome defects in others or to change their tragic
condition.
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C 1. Incantation [chanting (japa)] : By incantation, one is able to prevent negative thoughts or emotions
from entering ones mind, practically all the time. To be able to do incantation effectively, one can give
oneself the following suggestion for about three months : Whenever I am not talking to anybody or thinking
usefully, I will start repeating a name, word or a sentence. This technique prevents the generation of
unwanted thoughts and emotions in the mind. It thus conserves mental energy and increases stress
tolerance. It is therefore useful in all psychiatric illnesses.
C 2. Punishment (aversion) : When all the above techniques fail to control a wrong action or reaction,
despite giving suggestions for two to three weeks, one can make use of this technique and pinch oneself
hard whenever a wrong action or reaction takes place. Here is an example of how to formulate a suggestion
to this effect : Whenever I am day-dreaming, I will become aware of it and will pinch myself hard. If pinching
once is not effective then one can punish oneself by tightening ones trouser belt or tying a thread on ones
leg tightly so as to induce pain for a while.
Important points to keep in mind when preparing auto-suggestions
1. When preparing the auto-suggestions, the sentence composition should be always simple. It should be
prepared in limited and proper words. It helps in easy study sessions and the sub-conscious mind also
finds it easy to accept it.
2. The auto-suggestions should not be negative. In the auto-suggestions, never use negative words like
no, not, dont, wont, cant etc. It should be always positive.
Let us see an example
Improper auto-suggestion
When Sunil asks me have you studied I will reply my study is over without getting angry.
Proper auto-suggestion
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When Sunil asks me have you studied I will reply my study is over calmly. Here, in this auto-suggestion,
due to negative language, first that negative ness is reminded of and then an auto-suggestion would have to
be given for that negativity to go. It is very difficult for mind to change after accepting a negative autosuggestion; hence, one should not use negative words in the auto-suggestions.
3. Auto-suggestions should never be in the past tense.
4. The sentence composition as per the two methods awareness of improper actions and controlling it
and response substitution technique should be in the future tense.
5. In Hypnotic desensitisation technique, the sentence composition should be of present tense. Let us see
one example of it.
Example: Mr. Rakesh had to travel by bus to go to work in Mumbai. He used to get tensed about it. He gave
rd
auto-suggestion as per the 3 technique.
Improper auto-suggestion
I started at 8 Oclock in the morning to go to work. I went to the bus stop. Then got in bus going to Mumbai. I
got down at Shivaji park bus stop near the office. After reaching office, I started working enthusiastically.
Proper auto-suggestion
I am leaving home at 8 Oclock in the morning to go to work. I am standing at the bus stop. I am getting on in
bus going to Mumbai. I am getting down at Shivaji park bus stop near the office. After reaching office, I am
starting to work enthusiastically.
6. Never use plural words like ours, we, etc. in auto-suggestions. Instead use singular words like I, mine,
me, etc. Let us see one example of it.
Improper auto-suggestion
When Sunil asks me have you studied I will reply him calmly our study is over.
Proper auto-suggestion
When Sunil asks me have you studied I will reply him calmly my study is over.
Part 11
7. Instead of giving negative auto-suggestions about improper actions and reactions, give auto-suggestions
so that our improper actions and reactions reduce and proper action happens through us and improper
reactions do not arise in our mind. Let us see one example of this Improper auto-suggestion
I will not cross road in a hurry.
Proper auto-suggestion
When I am crossing the road in a hurry I will become aware of it and I will cross the road carefully.
8. If specific auto-suggestions are given regarding place, person, situation, action, reaction then it is easier
for sub-conscious mind to accept it and the process of removal of personality defects happens rapidly. Let us
see some examples 1. Improper auto-suggestion
a. If I come across anyone I will not see his defects but will see only qualities.
b. If I come across anyone I will think God is in him too.
Proper auto-suggestion
When Sunil comes in front of me, I will only see his quality honesty.
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2. Improper auto-suggestion
When someone tells me that I am proofreading very slowly then I will proofread quickly.
Proper auto-suggestion
After going to Dainik office, when Sunil tells me, you proofread very slowly, I will accept what he said and
will proofread properly and quickly.
9. Do not give general auto-suggestions for personality defects. Let us an example a. I wont get angry.
Points to be kept in mind while doing study sessions
1. One should note that while doing study sessions, the state of Hypnosis holds only 10% importance
whereas the auto-suggestions for treatment hold about 90% importance. Hypnosis state aids only in
reducing the period of treatment; but the auto-suggestions remove the personality defects in individual.
2. It is necessary to give auto-suggestions for 3 different personality defects for at least a week.
3. At least 3 study sessions should be done in a day. At the most do 6 study sessions. The more study
sessions one does the more he will benefit rapidly.
4. If one is doing study sessions of auto-suggestions in the morning, afternoon, evening and at night, and if
he commits a mistake or incorrect behaviour in that period, then there is no point in giving auto-suggestion
for it. For reducing every incorrect behaviour one should give auto-suggestions for at least a week.
5. After regularly doing study sessions for a week, if one observes some improvement in a personality defect
then one should stop giving auto-suggestions about it.
6. If, after some days, the same personality defect arises, then give auto-suggestions about it again.
7. If a personality defect is deep seated or is severe, then after giving auto-suggestions for it, to see
improvement it takes about 2-3 weeks.; but after continuing the study sessions changes will be seen after
some days.
8. If there is an improvement in a personality defect; it indicates going in the direction of getting rid of that
personality defect and without any feeding of auto-suggestions, it continues further. If there is no
improvement despite giving auto-suggestions for a week, then give auto-suggestions for 3 to 4 weeks
repeatedly. If there is no improvement even then, then assume that there is lot of mental resistance in
accepting that auto-suggestion. At such times, stop giving auto-suggestions for that defect and work on other
defect.
9. After some weeks it is possible to give auto-suggestions about the previously mentioned personality defect
with lot of mental resistance. Now the auto-suggestions prove to be effective; because the worries of subconscious mind have reduced considerably due to which the released mental energy is available for the
removal of that personality defect.
10. After starting the study sessions of auto-suggestions writing the diary should be continued. For happy life
and for effective spiritual practice it is necessary that persons personality defects are removed and qualities
are imbibed. In obtaining happiness or contentment our own personality defects are major obstacle. Also, in
the efforts to attain God, they are primary obstacle in ones spiritual practice. The more the defects the more
will be mistakes in individual and collective spiritual practice and the further away one is from God. In the
efforts for attaining God in addition to spiritual measures (along with spiritual practice) removal of personality
defects is equally important; because the energy obtained from spiritual practice is wasted in mistakes made
due to personality defects.
Minutes: Seconds
1. Concentrate by chanting ones individual chant
3:0
0 : 15
1 : 30
20
3 : 30
0 : 15
Part 12
Step 7: By self-analysis and getting feedback about the progress from others take suggestions about
the progress
After giving auto-suggestions for about 7 days or a week on 3 personality defects (PDs) or 3 associated
defects, review the progress/improvement in self. Decide the improvement/progress based on the following
points.
1. The awareness about incorrect action or reaction
If one is becoming aware of his PDs using one of the Steps from the below Steps, then assume that there is
an improvement in that PD and give the next Step of suggestion.
1a. Becoming aware after incorrect action has happened and after incorrect reaction is expressed.
1b. Becoming aware when the incorrect action is happening and when incorrect reaction is coming to mind.
1c. Becoming aware before incorrect action happens and before incorrect reaction surfaces.
1d. Destroying incorrect thoughts and incorrect impressions behind the incorrect action.
As soon as it is realized that incorrect thought and impressions have been destroyed, choose another PDs
as per the priority.
2. Reduction in the number and frequency of incorrect action and incorrect reactions
If there is a reduction in number and frequency of manifestation of a PD when one is giving auto-suggestions
about the manifestations, then it can be safely assumed that there is an improvement in that particular PD.
Let us see an example Due to PD getting angry Mr. Shashank throws/bangs things, shouts talks loudly,
argues. After realizing the importance of this process, he gave suggestions about banging things and talking
loudly for a week. Then his events of banging and talking loudly reduced. Hence it proves that there is an
improvement in Mr. Shashank.
3. Reduction in the period of incorrect reactions
If there is a reduction in the period of incorrect reaction then assume that there is an improvement in that PD.
For example, Ms. Nanda feels disappointed frequently. It lasts for about 4 hours continuously. After giving
suggestions about it for a week, the period of disappointment reduced by 2 hours. Hence, it indicates that
there is an improvement in Ms. Nandas PD.
4. Incorrect action and incorrect reactions are replaced by correct action and reactions
Gradually instead of incorrect action and incorrect reactions correct action and reactions are happening then
it also indicates an improvement in the personality defect.
5. Asking others about progress in ones personality defect
One can ask others about improvement in ones personality defect. Many times, after commencing the autosuggestions we may feel there is an improvement in my personality defect; but by taking opinion of others
about it gives us the correct picture about it, it also helps in deciding the order of personality defects for the
next weeks study sessions.
Write the percentage of improvement in the personality defect for which we are giving suggestions about the
personality defect for which we give auto-suggestions.
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Step 8: Once a personality defect is controlled, select another personality defect to work upon based
on the priority and give auto-suggestions.
After giving auto-suggestions for 3 personality defects or its manifestations for a week, and if there is an
improvement in one or more personality defects, then choose next personality defects as per the priority in
the next week. Let us see one example.
Mr. Dinesh had six personality defects getting angry, impatience, daydreaming, stubbornness, suspicious,
inferiority complex. Mr. Dinesh did regular sessions and gave auto-suggestions on three personality defects
getting angry, impatience and daydreaming for one week initially. Then he felt improvement in impatience
and daydreaming; but did not feel improvement in getting angry. Hence, next week he started working on
getting angry, stubbornness and suspicious nature.
Resort to punishment (aversion) if there is no improvement in the personality defect
If there is no improvement in a personality defect despite giving auto-suggestion for 3-4 weeks continuously
resort to the method of punishment. Eg. There was no improvement in the personality defect of day
dreaming in Mr. Ravi. He decided to resort to the method of giving punishment. He gave the following autosuggestion.
Whenever I am daydreaming, I will immediately become aware of it and will pinch myself very hard. After
implementing this method Mr. Ravi experienced an improvement in this personality defect.
Attention to be paid regarding giving auto-suggestions
It is necessary to pay attention to on what should the auto-suggestions be given and on what it shouldnt.
1. Some acts of daily life can be easily done by us. Such acts do not require auto-suggestions. Some
examples are follows One seeker gave auto-suggestion I will wake up at 5 a.m. every day. To wake up at
5 a.m. in the morning we can easily set an alarm. It is not necessary to give auto-suggestion for it. If one is
not getting up early due to laziness, then give auto-suggestions for laziness to overcome that personality
defect.
2. Except psychological disorders, it is necessary to resort to medical treatments for physical illnesses
instead of giving auto-suggestions for it. Psychological disorders means illnesses arising due to ill effects on
bodys various system and organs as a result of mental disorders. For examples, High blood pressure due to
worrying personality. In such illnesses the root cause is personality defect or mental disorder. To overcome
such mental disorders auto-suggestions prove to be very beneficial; but except psychological disorders autosuggestions are not useful for other illnesses. Eg. Cold, headache, stomachache etc. Such illnesses require
medical treatment; however, it these illnesses are happening due to inappropriate habits, then to change
such habits into good habit, auto-suggestions can be useful.
3. A seeker did sessions of auto-suggestions for 15 days so that prembhav increases in him; but there was
no change in him at all. Prembhav can be expressed only at action level. Merely giving auto-suggestions
does not increase prembhav. To do so, some acts are required to be done regularly, eg. First calling/replying
others appropriately, making sincere inquiries about them, talking to them on regular basis, listening to their
obstacles and trying to resolve it etc. Such acts only express prembhav. For correct actions to happen
regarding prembhav give auto-suggestions.
Essential qualities for success in the process of removal of personality defects
1. Will power or intense desire (Talmal): Person who intensely feels all my personality defects should be
removed only can make effort for removal of personality defects. Such person with Talmal not only tries to
implement all the Steps in this process; but in addition to auto-suggestions he makes efforts for the removal
of personality defects by doing some acts too. Such person can make sincere and effective efforts for
removal of personality defects due to conviction by the intellect.
2. Belief: Only if there is a belief that my personality defects will be definitely removed if I make efforts for it,
all the Steps in this process can be implemented. If there is no belief in the process then one cannot follow
the process regularly and obstacles are created in the removal of personality defects. Belief in the process
helps in developing a positive attitude.
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3. Honesty: For this process, honesty is extremely necessary quality. Honesty is essential in accepting own
mistakes, noting it down in the diary, thinking about correct action, analyzing the event, asking mind
questions and accepting the concluded personality defects, preparing auto-suggestions for personality
defects and doing regular sessions and reviewing the progress etc. If one does not have the attitude of
accepting own personality defects honestly, then that person gives incorrect justifications.
4. Not impatience but perseverance required: Since the personality defects and incorrect impressions in
the sub-conscious mind are deep-seated, it takes longer time for process of its removal. It does not happen
that today auto-suggestion has been given and tomorrow the personality defect will be removed. Hence, in
this process it is extremely necessary that impatience is not there but perseverance is there. If there is no
perseverance then the efforts are not continued.
5. Continuity and practice: One can gain mastery in any thing by continuously practicing it. By making
continuous efforts, preparing auto-suggestions and doing the sessions can be achieved effectively.
6. Concentration: The more is ones ability to achieve concentration the more is his ability to accept the
auto-suggestions. When giving auto-suggestions if attention is paid to it, then the effectiveness autosuggestion increases. It is not possible to achieve concentration with unstable mentality. It results in
obstacles in accepting the auto-suggestions. (To achieve concentration Self-Hypnosis sessions are useful.
Refer to Sanatans publication Hypnosis to learn about it.)
7. Intelligence: The more intelligent one is, the more is his ability to prepare and accept the autosuggestions. Such person can immediately understand the meaning of auto-suggestions.
8. Obedience: Auto-suggestions are basically directives/orders given to the sub-conscious mind. The one
who has habit of obeying the directives (obedience) such person can accept the auto-suggestions easily.
Hence, children, nurses, police, soldiers have more ability to accept auto-suggestions than anyone else.
Out of the above qualities, person having 1 to 5 qualities the process of removal of personality defects can
become rapid and effective.
D_8 Aug 04
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