Three steps to transcendence
We are each moving about our lives in our own invisible boxes. These boxes contain our thoughts, perceptions, and habits propagated by the environment in which we grew up. This gives the phrase “thinking outside the box” a more personal meaning. Since about 80 percent of our behavior comes from our unconscious minds, we are often on autopilot as we go through the motions of our days, not really examining from where our various actions, reactions, and emotions emanate. Here are three steps to transcendence.
Reflecting on our ways of being and seeing
The first step in increasing well-being begins with reflecting on our own ways of being and seeing. This is not a judgmental process; it is simply bearing honest witness to the ways in which we are in the world so that we can decide if there is anything we can do differently. Is there something we need to change in our behaviors? Can we be more tolerant, forgiving, or compassionate? It’s important to be our own best detectives, willing to delve into the depths of our minds and souls in order to generate more productive and happier futures. It may not be easy, but it’s definitely worthwhile.
Mapping out the tangibles
The second step involves tangibles, such as writing down where we’re coming from and where we want to go, as well as any habits we want to change. Then we can ask, “Is what I’m doing now in line with where I want to be, or is it getting me further away from my goals?” “Am I spending my days reacting to other people’s urgencies, or am I doing what’s important towards my long-term fulfillment?” It’s also vital that we are patient with ourselves as habits generally take a great deal of practice to change. Thankfully, due to neuroplasticity, the neural pathways in our brains are capable of rewiring to accommodate new ways of being, but it takes a while for them to become our new default habits.
Venturing outside the box
The ultimate step has to do with venturing outside our boxes. How can we see our situations from other angles? We can take more of an aerial view where we see things using wider lenses and ask, “What is my role in relation to the entire world?” “How can I make a positive difference in my life right now?” and “How can I grow from what I’ve experienced?”
The power of imagination and regular meditation are helpful tools to hone. Silencing the “monkey mind” and going within can instantly catapult us to a transcendent place. We can envision beautiful colors and lights or just positive words. We can simply become aware of the breath as it flows in and out of the nasal passages. Allow thoughts to come in if they must, but then let them flow right out without judgment. Through meditation, we can connect to a blissful place outside ourselves. The spiritual perspective reminds us that we inhabit these bodies on a rented basis, but they are not really us. The true essence of us, our souls, live on and are all connected to a tenacious loving source. That realization alone should bring relief and joy.
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One more thing to add. I believe it’s in the Bible somewhere, but it’s definitely on the internet somewhere. WE MUST LEARN TO DIE DAILY. Well written article, I can’t disagree with one word.