Werner has developed certain ground rules for the training which you have agreed to follow.

Ground rules matter.The est training begins with a strict enforcement of agreements trainees made beforehand, such as no talking, no watches, and remaining in the room. This seemingly trivial focus on rules serves to immediately confront trainees with their tendency to break agreements and highlight the mechanical nature of their behavior. The trainer and assistants maintain a neutral, often confrontational, demeanor to strip away social niceties and force trainees to confront their own reactions.

Challenging assumptions.The trainer establishes authority by declaring trainees'' lives "don''t work" and calling them "assholes," deliberately provoking reactions. This initial shock aims to break down trainees'' intellectual defenses and belief systems, which the training posits are barriers to experiencing life fully. The trainer emphasizes that he is not there to be liked or believed, but to facilitate an experience.

Creating a space.The strict rules and the trainer''s challenging style create an intense, controlled environment designed to disrupt habitual patterns. By removing familiar comforts (like checking time, talking, or leaving) and challenging self-image, the training aims to create a space where trainees can observe their automatic responses and begin to experience themselves differently. This sets the stage for the core concepts and processes to land.