Domain: Identity Drift & Fragmentation 3-5 min read Updated: 2026-01-15

The Inside That Pulls Back While Another Moves Forward

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Inside, one part moves forward while another pulls back.

Progress and restraint coexist in the same moment.

This simultaneity can feel confusing, but it reflects complexity rather than indecision.

Naming both motions allows awareness without forcing either to stop.

Acknowledge mixed impulses with DojoWell.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I feel like I'm stepping on the gas and the brakes at the same time?

You have "Simultaneous Forward and Backward Impulses." One part of you (the Pursuit system) is moving toward a goal, while another part (the Avoidance system) is pulling back to maintain safety. Naming this prevents you from feeling "broken." It’s a common structural state. Acknowledging both impulses allows you to "drive" with more awareness, adjusting your speed rather than stalling in frustration.

What do I do when the "pull back" is stronger than the "move forward"?

Stop and Check the Brakes. If the backward impulse is strong, it usually means there is an unaddressed Threat signal. Instead of pushing harder—which increases internal friction—look at what the "pull back" is trying to communicate. Often, a small adjustment to your "safety baseline" is all that’s needed to allow the forward momentum to resume without the internal drag.

The Inside That Pulls Back While Another Moves Forward