“Now go stand in a corner and think about what you’ve done”
Taylor Swift
One of the most basic behaviours in the animal kingdom is reaction. There is a threat, we react. Reaction is one of the manifestations of self preservation. It is an instinctive behaviour that in the course of evolution was meant to keep yourselves safe. Humans have evolved tremendously over centuries. Homo sapiens have come a long way from from instinct driven actions and behaviours to attainment of greater spiritual pursuits. Reactions many times are reflex actions. There is a physiologic explanation to it. It is a primitive behaviour meant to protect one from harm. There is no rumination involved. It is immediate.
Reactions are shallow. There is no thought involved. It is instinct driven, provides immediate gratification, soothes the wounded pride and leaves many unhappy. There is no learning or awakening. Reactions can create negative relationships. Thoughtless reactions are the reason for rivalries, animosity, and an unwanted trail of mishaps.
Do not underestimate negative relationships. you have a deep bond with those you hate, fear or envy. Time to dissolve that
Sadhguru
Let us talk about reflection.
This is a thought process and goes deeper. Each one of us has moments of reflections when we look inwards, and introspect.
Kensho and Satori are Buddhist philosophy. They are the two paths to spiritual awakening or growth. Kensho means Seeing one’s true nature, a path that involves pain and leaves you wiser through enduring difficult times. Satori involves growth through sudden or spontaneous personal insights. It is more like an aha moment and may leave you wondering – “Why didn’t I think of this before”. This can also happen when you increasingly connected to the present and are mindful. I have had a fair share of Kensho and Satori moments. As time passes I have found that deeply spiritual mind grows though more of Satori experiences. We do not need pain to teach us everything. We just need to be mindful and aware.
What is common to both is that there is Reflection. Reflection is the raison d’être to Kensho and Satori. A deeper connection to your soul develops and leaves you awakened and enlightened. Reflection alone is not enough. One needs courage and integrity to unlearn and admit flaws. That is when we grow. Reflection doesn’t mean you berate yourself for being bad. You use the process to build on your strengths and let go of weaknesses to become a better human.
What if confirmation bias interferes in your journey?
Now that can be a dangerous thing! Confirmation bias happens when you favor information to confirm or strengthen your beliefs or values. Once you have developed this tendency it can be difficult to dislodge. For example you read a quote and think it favors your actions even though they might not be right.
Embarking on a journey of awakening and growth
Create a self reflection journal. Set aside some time each day or each week for this personal journey. This your time. Think of things you did right, didn’t do right, what you are grateful for. Make a mental note of what you would like to accomplish.
As a transformation coach I help people through their difficult times with the help of my coaching philosophy that helps you rebuild, reshape and redefine your life. If you would like to know more, connect with me.
“People who have had little self-reflection live life in a huge reality blind-spot.”
– Bryant McGill.
VasantiLifeCoach 