It makes sense that a person attuned to the present moment might have a better chance of averting the consequences of being disrespected or mistreated.
What do I mean? Well, most of us, myself included, have experienced those situations where our choices resulted in unfavorable consequences. I don’t have to think hard to recall the times of humiliation my abuser inflicted on me, leaving me to feel angry, frustrated, and trapped behind a wall of dysregulated emotions. But later I learned that by practicing mindfulness, the response can be different. I learned to notice my anger rising, but instead of letting it control my actions, I could take a breath and choose a different response. This is because mindfulness creates a space between the triggering event and the reaction, allowing for greater awareness and choice. By staying present and accepting my emotions without judgment, I can navigate the situation with greater calm and clarity.
“There are as many choices in life as there are seconds in a day. The key to choosing a different pattern for different perspectives is practicing mindfulness.” – Sher Unbound
Fortunately, the application and practice of mindfulness may prevent repeating the same choices that lead to increased chances of negative consequences. Here’s how:
- Reduced Reactivity: Mindfulness creates a space between a stimulus (the disrespectful act) and your response. This gap allows you to observe your emotions and choose a discerning reaction instead of automatically reacting with anger or defensiveness.
- Increased Awareness: When mindful, you’re more likely to recognize the early signs of disrespect or mistreatment. This awareness gives you the opportunity to address the situation calmly or remove yourself from it before it escalates.
- Focus on the Present: Mindfulness emphasizes focusing on the here and now. Dwelling on past grievances or worrying about future interactions can amplify feelings of being disrespected. By staying present, you’re less likely to let past experiences or future anxieties color your perception of the current situation.
- Silencing the Inner Critic: Sometimes, our reactions to disrespect are amplified by a deeper insecurity – the feeling that we are fundamentally not enough. This insecurity can lead to excessive worrying and rumination as we try to figure out what we did wrong to cause the other person’s behavior. This is an attempt to silence the inner critic that tells us we are flawed or unworthy. Mindfulness helps us recognize this pattern and detach from the need to constantly prove ourselves. It allows us to accept that we are enough, just as we are, regardless of others’ opinions or actions.
- Emotional Regulation: Mindfulness practices help you develop the ability to observe your emotions without judgment. This can help you detach from the immediate sting of disrespect and choose a response that aligns with your values.
My journey hasn’t been easy, but mindfulness has been a lifeline. It’s given me the tools to navigate challenging emotions and situations with more awareness and choice. And that’s what UnBound Living is all about – breaking free from old patterns, reclaiming our power, and living with intention.
As you consider your own path, I invite you to reflect: How do you typically react when you feel disrespected? What role does your inner critic play in those moments? Are you ready to choose a different response, to step into the freedom of UnBound Living? The choice, like every breath you take, is yours.