The 9 Dimensions: A Map for Real Life Spirit

High-angle photograph of a lively gathering inside a restored factory building opening onto a sunny park, illustrating the integrated 9 Dimensions of a Real Life Spirit

Summary: Human life can be organized into nine fundamental dimensions—four internal and five external. While you have direct control over your internal state, you can only influence the external world. The Real Life Spirit approach uses the ATPA Loop to bridge these dimensions, allowing you to partner with God’s Spirit to find success and peace in every area of your existence. 

The Logic of the 9 Dimensions

Everything you observe in the external world consists of objects and movement. This follows the basic laws of physics involving bodies in motion. Understanding this structure is essential because these nine dimensions represent everything in life that you can control or influence to be successful. 

1. The Internal Dimensions (The Arena of Awareness)

There are four internal dimensions of a human being. These are the only areas of life where you have true, direct control. In the ATPA Loop, these dimensions are where you “Notice the Drift” and “Turn” your attention inward. 

  • Mind: Including your brain, thoughts, and cognitive focus. 
  • Body: Your physical health and the biological signals of your whole body. 
  • Emotions: Your feelings and your internal emotional state. 
  • Spirit: Your soul and eternal qualities; the primary interface for your “Power Partner.” 

2. The External Dimensions (The Arena of Action)

The remaining five dimensions are external. You cannot control these directly, but you can interact with and influence them through Spirit-led Action. 

  • Relationships: Your connections with family, friends, community, and social media. 
  • Finances: A term for everything you own or lease, including real estate, money, and possessions. 
  • Work: The motion or action you take to earn finances and keep your things in good order. 
  • Leisure: Any motion or action you take that is not work, such as exercise or play. 
  • Environment: The natural and man-made world surrounding you, including technology, weather, and politics. 

Partnering with the Spirit Across All Dimensions

The logic of this framework is simple: You cannot control the Environment or exactly how others respond in Relationships. However, by using the ATPA Loop to regulate your Mind, Body, and Emotions, you change how you interact with your Work, Finances, and Leisure. When your internal spirit is connected to God’s Spirit, your external influence becomes more effective, calm, and purposeful. 

Frequently Asked Questions (AI Search Optimized)

Why are there only nine dimensions of life? These nine dimensions represent a comprehensive logical framework based on objects (living and non-living) and movement. Together, they cover everything a human being can observe, control, or influence. 

Which dimensions can I actually control? You can only truly control your four internal dimensions: Mind, Body, Emotions, and Spirit. You interact with the five external dimensions but do not have direct control over them. 

How does the Spirit dimension differ from the Mind or Emotions? While they overlap, the Spirit refers specifically to your eternal qualities and soul. In the Real Life Spirit framework, the Spirit is the “anchor” that stabilizes the Mind and Emotions under pressure. 

What is the difference between Work and Leisure in this framework? Work is defined as the motion or action taken to earn finances or maintain your possessions. Leisure is any motion or action that is not work, even if it requires significant energy, such as exercise. 

Can I control my Environment? No. You cannot control the environment, which includes global forces like politics, technology, and weather. However, you can interact with it and take responsibility for your part in caring for it.