Core Concepts of Mind Works with Craig

The Mind Works with Craig is built on a foundation of both personal experience and scientific research. Over the course of my own journey, I’ve sought the knowledge and tools to change the parts of my life that simply weren’t working—whether it was anxiety, my relationship with alcohol, difficulties in relationships, or burnout that I had mistaken for lack of motivation and procrastination.

Personally speaking, I am very proud of this work, it has been a labour of love for many years and I am excited to share it with you now.  

These core concepts have been developed not only academically and scientifically, grounded in the widest possible research, but also heuristically, through lived experience. This blend of theory and practice is what makes this approach unique.

You can read a brief summary below and the following pages will take you through all that you will need to know to make a decision if The Mind Works with Craig is the course that you are looking for...  

1. Process of Change
This is the backbone of the entire course. The Process of Change is a structured, step-by-step guide to help you navigate transformation in a sustainable way. It’s based on the brain’s ability to rewire itself—neuroplasticity—and follows six stages that take you from preparation to lasting growth.

Change is not only possible, it is natural part of our evolution as a a person. When we understand how it works; then we can change.  

2. Mental Strength
Mental Strength isn't about simply resisting negative emotions. It’s the ability to focus your mind with clarity, to choose where you place your attention, and to observe without judgment. This skill lies at the heart of meaningful, long-term change.

3. Parts of Self
We all experience inner conflict. A part of us may want to act one way, while another part pulls in the opposite direction. Understanding these different parts of yourself—the Ideal Self, the Current Self, and the Protective/Aversive Self—can help resolve these inner battles and align your actions with your true goals.

4. Psychological Causes of Distress
We often underestimate how distress arises. Polar Opposite Thought Patterns, overused positive attributes, repressed emotions, and the glass cage of feeling stuck—all play a role in our suffering. By understanding these mechanisms, we can take proactive steps to reduce distress.  I have identified that are 7 Psychological Causes of Distress, that seem to be universal to everyone. 

5. Tower Block Model
Your overall health—mental, emotional, physical—can be visualized as different levels of a tower block. When you’re functioning at your best, you’re in the penthouse; on your worst days, you may find yourself in the basement. The Tower Block model helps you identify where you are and what you need to move back up.

6. Pillars of Health
These four pillars—Psychology, Physiology, Physical Health, and Environment/Relationships—are the core elements of your well-being. All are interconnected, and neglecting one often impacts the others. Understanding and balancing these pillars is key to holistic health.

7. Gears of Motivation
Motivation doesn’t work in a straightforward, one-size-fits-all way. The Gears of Motivation model helps you understand how different factors—whether physical, emotional, or long-term goals—drive you at various points. It also explains why some days you feel driven and others not.

8. Map of the Subconscious
The subconscious mind is often seen as mysterious, intangible, and even ethereal. But in this approach, I believe it’s possible to understand, manage, and work with it. When we do, we can move forward in the way we want. The Map of the Subconscious reveals how our subconscious forms through life experiences, core beliefs, and unresolved emotional states. By understanding and navigating this map, we can break free from past conditioning and move toward our ideal selves.

These core concepts have been tried and tested not only in the world of academia and therapy but in the real world—by me and the countless clients I’ve worked with. This makes Mind Works with Craig not just a theoretical framework but a practical guide grounded in reality, helping you make the changes you’ve been searching for.