Transactional Analysis : Script Process

In the lesson on injunctions I introduced the TA idea of a life script. This lesson will add to the theory by describing six patterns that seem to be universal to how we live a script. As you read through the following examples, take note of which processes you use to live your script. Then ask yourself what 'bad things' might happen to you if instead, you broke your pattern.

Until:	I can't have fun until I've finished my work. I won't start until I get all my ducks lined up. I have to completely understand this before I quit. I'll work until I retire, then I can enjoy life. You don't really start life until after you're finished school.
After:	I can have fun today but I'll pay for it tomorrow. This is great; but am I gonna be sorry later. It's all over, after you're married (a parent, 40, retired). I blew it, I'll never meet anyone so perfect for me ever again.
Never:	I can never get what I want. It never works out for me. I can never decide what to do, there's always pros and cons. I can't quite get myself off the couch, even though I'm hungry and the TV show isn't that good.
Always:	Why does this always happen to me? Are all men Jerks or is it me? Why do I always find them? I'm not really happy with my wife but I guess I'll stay and just hope. Do I have a sign on my forehead, "Lead me on then dump me?"
Almost:	Once again I almost made it. Again, I was so close I could almost taste it. I almost got the project done on time. I thought for sure I'd make it this time. If it hadn't been for that ...
Almost (v.2):	I'm almost there ... I'm almost there ... This project just keeps getting extended more and more. I just can't rest. Even when I achieve a goal, it's not enough! I'm never satisfied until the job is perfect. OK, that's completed. Now let's get going. What's next?
Open Ended:	Once I get there, then what ???