The two previous posts discussed how our brains work to form habits and behaviors.  This knowledge allows us to understand why we react the way we do to certain situations.  Sometimes we are unable to change how we react to these situations because of our minds hard wiring.  When this happens, we must learn how to accept we do not have control over these reactions.  Instead, we need to regroup and focus on the things we can control.  This technique allows us to move forward with our personal growth and development.

Learning Acceptance

Think of a habit you have that you do not like.  How does this habit make you feel?  Be honest about how it makes you feel.  Remember not to assign any positive or negative meaning to these emotions.  Look at it objectively.  Now focus on a habit you have that you do like.  How does this make you feel?  Once again look at it objectively without assigning any positive or negative meaning to it.  Whenever a habit you don’t like occurs immediately focus on a habit you do like.  Then focus on another habit you like.  Continually think of habits you do like.  Until they are all you can think about.  This is a very powerful technique that shifts your attention from negative thoughts to positive thoughts.  Understanding how our brains work allows us to control our thoughts, and in turn our emotions.  Learning how to accept what we can’t change starts with focusing on our thoughts and emotions.

Learning acceptance is a process.  The more you practice the technique I just described, the easier it will be to start accepting your natural reactions.  Acceptance is a key component of mindfulness.  When you can accept yourself, you are then able to accept others.   As you are able to accept yourself and others you will grow into a deeper connection of compassion.