De-conditioning of the mind can only be done by one process alone: introspection. This is a continuous, merciless examination of ourselves to improve. This improvement can come in two ways. First, one is to accept the harsh criticism of others by acknowledging their external ‘hammering’ with an open mind. Without being off ended, one should take on board harsh criticism from others and, after an objective analysis, carry out a complete re-assessment of oneself. The other method of de-conditioning can be called ‘self-hammering’. This is to look at ourselves with a critical eye, evaluate ourselves day and night, perceive every mistake with severity, and then introspect by mercilessly ‘hammering’ ourselves without giving ourselves any concessions. Instead of accusing others, we should analyse ourselves objectively and find our faults. These are the only two possible ways of de-conditioning. Either one accepts the ‘hammering’ of others, or one becomes one’s own worst critic by ‘self-hammering’. The one who likes to hear good things about himself from others and makes excuses for his mistakes will always remain a conditioned person and will never be able to decondition or purify his mind.