Origins of The Work

The Work,” a self-inquiry process, was founded by Byron Katie (also known as Katie) in 1986. It is a method for identifying and questioning thoughts that cause stress and suffering. 

Here’s a more detailed explanation:

• Inspiration:

  In 1986, after a period of deep depression and self-loathing, Byron Katie experienced a profound shift in awareness, realizing that her suffering stemmed from believing her stressful thoughts. 
• Core Concept:

  Katie realized that when she believed her thoughts, she suffered, but when she questioned them, she found freedom from suffering. 
• The Work:

  This realization led her to develop “The Work,” a process of self-inquiry using four questions and turnarounds to examine stressful thoughts. 
• Four Questions:

  The Work involves asking four key questions:

  1. Is it true?
  2. Can you absolutely know that it’s true?
  3. How do you react, what happens, when you believe that thought? 
  4. Who would you be without that thought? 
• Turnarounds:

  After answering the four questions, the thought is turned around to its opposite and other perspectives. 
• Purpose:

  The Work aims to help individuals identify and challenge their stressful thoughts, leading to greater peace and freedom. 
• Dissemination:

  Since 1986, Byron Katie has shared The Work with millions of people through public events, workshops, and publications like “Loving What Is”.