When I was 28 years old, on a cold January morning, I decided I wouldn't be the person I had been. I gathered all the items that represented my past—trophies, collections, memorabilia—and threw them away.
Nearly 40 years later, I believe that decision was the best I ever made. It allowed me to determine who I wanted to be.
Adversities in our lives often stem from our perception of who we are. Why are we driven to make certain decisions? Why do we engage in self-destructive behaviors like smoking, drinking, or poor eating habits?
These actions are not conscious choices; they are influenced by our subconscious mind, shaped by our environment and experiences.
Maslow's hierarchy of needs suggests that survival is our most basic trait. Yet, we often engage in behaviors that are counterproductive to our survival. We sabotage our relationships, neglect our health, and make poor decisions.
Why do we do this? Our subconscious mind, influenced by past experiences and environments, often misguides us.
To combat these destructive patterns, we must first recognize that our consciousness is subject to our subconscious. We must consciously determine to influence our subconscious so that the messages it sends align with our true desires. This realization empowers us to take control of our lives and make conscious decisions that positively influence our subconscious.
Consider the impact of your environment on your subconscious. For instance, a spiritual environment influenced a young man's intense spirituality despite societal assumptions about gender and spirituality. Similarly, the environment we create for our children profoundly affects their development.
My decision to pursue higher education at 50 influenced my daughter to strive for academic success and pursue a career in law. Negative influences could be toxic relationships, unhealthy work environments, or exposure to negative media. Positive influences could be supportive friends, a healthy work-life balance, or engaging in activities that bring joy and fulfillment.
Our environments and the influences they create shape our subconscious minds, affecting our conscious decisions. It's our responsibility to create a supportive environment that nurtures our subconscious and helps us overcome destructive patterns, allowing us to achieve our true potential.
Life Application
Recognize the power of your subconscious mind and its influence on your decisions. Create a positive environment that aligns with your goals. Remove negative influences and replace them with positive ones. Understand that change is possible and within your control.
Self-Assessment Questions
What negative influences are currently present in your environment?
How do your past experiences shape your subconscious beliefs and actions?
What conscious decisions can you make today to influence your subconscious positively?
How can you create a supportive environment for yourself and your loved ones?
What positive habits can you adopt to replace self-destructive behaviors?
By understanding and harnessing the power of your subconscious, you can transform adversity into an opportunity for growth and success, paving the way for a brighter future.
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