Desire and exploration

Desire gives curiosity a direction. Something draws your attention, a possibility takes shape, and an experiment becomes imaginable. This family explores recognising interest and following it through sensory curiosity, play and imagination. Each experiment offers a chance to discover more about what you enjoy and want to pursue.

Four capacities in this family

Desire recognition

Notice interest, attraction or its absence without prescribing the correct amount.

In everyday life: Identify whether you want company, movement, rest, erotic contact, or none of these.

Sensory curiosity

Explore a small unknown while retaining the option to decline.

In everyday life: Try a different rhythm or texture, and discover your own response.

Playful experimentation

Vary an experience with low stakes and reversible choices.

In everyday life: Change a movement or musical phrase and notice your response.

Imaginative possibility

Explore a sensory possibility while distinguishing imagination from intention or fact.

In everyday life: Imagine an enjoyable afternoon, or use words and sound if visual imagery is unavailable.

Begin with an ordinary moment

Choose one of these capacities and a situation in your day where it could be useful. Notice what is already available, make a small adjustment or try the everyday example, and reflect on what you discover. Let the experience guide your next choice.

Research and method · How capacities work together