The "Gestalt prayer" is a well-known statement that encapsulates the essence of Gestalt therapy, a form of psychotherapy developed by Fritz Perls, Laura Perls, and Paul Goodman in the 1940s and 1950s. The Gestalt prayer is a simple but profound expression of the core philosophy and principles of this therapeutic approach. It goes as follows:
"I do my thing, and you do your thing. I am not in this world to live up to your expectations, And you are not in this world to live up to mine. You are you, and I am I, And if by chance we find each other, it's beautiful. If not, it can't be helped."
The Gestalt prayer emphasizes the importance of individuality, personal responsibility, and self-awareness. It encourages individuals to take ownership of their thoughts, feelings, and actions, while also acknowledging and respecting the autonomy of others. It highlights the idea that everyone has their own unique path and that trying to meet others' expectations or imposing our expectations on others can be counterproductive to personal growth and healthy relationships.
Gestalt therapy, based on this humanistic and existential perspective, focuses on the present moment, self-awareness, and the holistic nature of human experience. The therapist helps clients explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors in the context of their immediate experiences, encouraging them to gain insights and develop greater self-acceptance.
Overall, the Gestalt prayer serves as a reminder of the importance of authenticity, empathy, and understanding in human interactions, both within therapy and in everyday life.