Despite acquiring healthy coping mechanisms, some individuals still get involved in conflicts when they encounter long standing enemies. Given the entrenched nature of these dynamics, the only viable path for those individuals to pursue their positive objectives is by permanently avoiding any and all persons, locations, and activities that are associated with their enemies.

In this lesson, Jay is eager to break free from his criminal past and he manages to get a job as a laborer. Displaying a good work ethic and enjoying the work, Jay’s future appears bright. However, when unexpectedly facing an old enemy, he reacts impulsively, leading to detrimental consequences.

Elliott shares Jay’s aspiration for a crime-free life. But unlike Elliott, Jay recognizes the inherent risks of maintaining ties to his past. Moreover, Jay is aware that his old friends will pull him back and he understands that merely being seen with them jeopardizes his future. So he stays away from his old friends and avoids their daytime hangout spots and party venues. As a result, he stays focused and pursues his goal of starting his own business.

In short, the purpose of this chapter is the following: