Adversity
It seems to be that part of experiencing being human includes facing adversity at some point during life. The extent can vary and is unique in for each of us, depending on the other circumstances occurring in our life. Some challenges are more intense, and some come as a culmination of a series of other challenges.
We all face situations through the filters of our history. As we grew up we observed how others responded or reacted to similar situations and our subconscious stored how we perceived these responses and reactions for future reference.
If we are in a stress response to a situation we tend to react habitually, drawing on our subconscious storehouse. We may not like how we react and consciously would prefer to respond in a more measured and considered way.
We can learn to “reprogram” the ways in which we react to challenges by updating our Subconscious storehouse. Basically we can consciously consider how we would prefer to be, and then update the subconscious response. The simplest, fastest and most effective way that I have used is PSYCH-K® processes for change. You can learn the “how-to” for yourself through a 3-day workshop, or schedule a session with a facilitator to create change in a particular area of life.
Other helpful ideas if you don’t have access to this rapid change mindset change process are:
- Breathe before responding or reacting at all. Just breathe, take some minutes to centre yourself amidst the seeming chaos. Reflect on HOW you are wanting to respond and play it in your mind before giving it a go. If you manage to create an even small change in a positive way then celebrate…it’s a great start!
- Take some time out to walk in nature and reflect on the things in life that are enjoyable. Being in nature! The trees, the birds, the sounds. Connect into some good vibes…no matter how seemingly small. Help the spiral slow down and offer the opportunity of new pathways.
- Journal: notice how things are now, how are you wanting them to be instead. Often we are so stuck in our story of what seems to be happening…imagining it even worse or more catastrophic than it is…that we forget to start seeing improvements, ways forward, or possible solutions.
We have the opportunity to choose how we approach situations. We can view them as a challenge through which we grow and learn instead of a de-railing stressful event that can often immobilize us in the moment. We are human and can find ourselves challenged greatly, and find ourselves reacting and in pain. As we become aware of our situation we can find the awareness of choice. Taking the time and opportunity is the key to change.
It’s easy to be grateful for the good things in life. Being thankful for the mistakes and challenges offer us the ability to enrich our lives, even more, being open and receptive to valuable growth opportunities.