Here’s a trippy thought…how do you become aware?
Awareness is defined as “having knowledge or perception of a fact.” A simple interwebs search brings up this:
“aware implies vigilance in observing or alertness in drawing inferences from what one experiences.”
Further, Merriam-Webster’s says:
“Some common synonyms of aware are alive, awake, cognizant, conscious, and sensible. While all these words mean ‘having knowledge of something,’ aware implies vigilance in observing or alertness in drawing inferences from what one experiences.”
That last sentence about awareness implying vigilance in observing or alertness in drawing inferences from what one experiences is what I want to discuss here.
Awareness is a mindset.
When we “set our mind” on something, we become aware of it, by observation. Why does any of this awareness stuff matter? If one is oblivious to the impact of the way they think, nothing will change. If we desire something different than the current status ie: health, weight or relationship changes, then awareness would seem to be key. It’s like a “state of the union” or assessment of what is currently happening.
If I weigh 180 pounds at 5′ 2″ and I am uncomfortable, short of breath, it’s hard to move around, my blood pressure is high and I generally feel ready to change, that is awareness that can be acted upon.
To be clear, the above scenario can be in play and the person has awareness but no desire to change- due to whatever thoughts- that is perfectly fine. It is not up to anyone else to MAKE someone aware with the intention to bring change. Yes, the Dr may assess the situation and make suggestions but we each have the privilege and right to make our own decisions (think what we want to think.)
Awareness is a tool.
When we make the goal of weight loss by eating Nutritarian, we may assume that meeting the goal is determined by the number on the scale. The genius in making a goal is NOT in achieving the goal. What?? Yep, what if goals are NOT for completing! THEY. ARE. FOR. FAILING. (missing the mark) 😵
>>>It is when we make a plan and we don’t follow it that all sorts of information is made aware to us!<<<
Our thoughts and feelings are stirred up and we can actually SEE what is going on in our mind! I could go on, but, that’s the idea I would like to suggest and have you consider.
Failure is the currency of your dreams. We have the opportunity to learn so much more about ourselves when we don’t reach our goal, than when we do! The olympic skier faceplants and learns what NOT to do. The baby moves her leg in a sideways position and topples over- she learns what NOT to do. The one determined to follow a Nutritarian way of eating, faces the 4:00 pm urge for something crunchy and GETS to decide what that means and how to act. That is GOLD! That is where the work is uncovered! When you tune into awareness of your beautiful self, you begin to have a change in perspective. You may become less harsh and judgmental with yourself. You may find your mindset changes and you begin to study your brain and how you think. This could totally be a life-changing endeavor! With great compassion (non-judgment) and curiosity, begin to study your fascinating self! Becoming aware of your thoughts and feelings is a terrific start! When you do begin this process, be prepared: your beliefs may be tested!
Asking yourself questions such as:
- Why do I believe that?
- What do I make it mean when she says that to me?
- What does it matter that I think that?
Those are all questions used to challenge your thinking.
***You don’t have to believe every thought you think!***
Having someone – like a coach- to support you in this self-awareness thought work can be very advantageous. In fact, it can accelerate things for you! (You can try it out with a free 30 minute mini-session! Just click here!)
Why?
- Because having someone bring another perspective that you would not have considered can really shake things up for you!
- Being held in a caring, supportive space assures you that you are not broken.
- A coach can teach you mindset tools and techniques as you are ready for them.
- Having support means you have someone cheerleading you as you learn and grow.
- Sitting with a coach who is an expert in unraveling the wad of thoughts in your mind is priceless.
- When you invest in your own growth and learning, that can unlock you and create an openness to change that you can’t get to on your own- or it could take MUCH longer!
**You can’t see the label when you are inside the bottle.**
Would you like some support in this process?
https://nourishyourlifestyle.com/coachwithnancy/
