The more reactive you are, the less options you have.
Most of us are on automatic, lost in the flow of our perceptions, and the only thing that wakes us up for a moment is a painful event or a fantastic happening.
Mindfulness can be learned in meditation but that’s only for practicing.
To apply it to everyday life takes a commitment to being self-aware all the time.
Start by observing yourself as you go through your day.
Study your moods, reactions, feelings, and thoughts.
Be a silent witness, and outside observer of yourself.
“Oh, there I am criticizing myself again.”
“Hello anxiety, I see you.”
Woah, look at how this person sets me off.”
Practice watching your inner life, especially when you get into a strong emotional state.
This is how to start to develop objectivity toward yourself.
To amplify it, imagine someone else having your experiences; what kind of advice would you give them?
Once you’re able to step outside yourself and observe, especially in the heat of the moment, you’re ready to begin processing your problems.
In my podcast, I offer guided exercises for doing this.
Mindfulness is the beginning of your freedom.
