1 definition by stelleri
Thought exercise used to define realistic parameters of a given situation or event. The individual creates a horror floor by taking a scientific method type approach to their situation/event, analyzing the pros and cons, and defining the true worst possible outcomes in a non-pessimistic or biased manner. Much like the 'glass ceiling', which limits positive growth in talented individuals but exists and is enforced by the mind , the 'Horror Floor' is an exercise in the reverse direction. By defining the real worst possible outcomes, the individual creating their horror floor can find solid footing to begin the assessment of challenging situations without giving in to bottomless and reasonless despair.
You fail (test/deadline/important responsibility) and feel terrible. It was paramount that you not fail, and your self-esteem takes a big hit. You begin to doubt what you know about yourself now that you have broken one of your most personal edicts. You then take a deep breath and carefully consider the ramifications of your failure, and consider their real impact on your life and how dire or trivial the end results are without bias or pessimism. You define and accept where and how you failed, while consciously addressing what other tools or resources you have that can remedy your situation. You keep in mind the limits of the consequences of your failure without allowing them to consume you and prevent you from utilizing the rest of your resources to build new foundations that will prevent you from future failure. By defining where the limits of your failure reach and the nature of said failure and consequences, you create your "horror floor", which serves as a foundation to limit the 'bottomless' sensation of emotional/intellectual despair.
by stelleri November 3, 2013