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they don’t teach you this in school
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Here’s a distinction I wish they had taught me in school: The difference between a Thought and Thinking. Thought is a noun. It requires no energy to create. And is just whatever pops up in your mind. Thinking on the other hand, is a verb. It requires effort. It’s the act of engaging with your thoughts. Thinking drains your energy. Thoughts are inevitable, thinking is optional. A core concept of Buddhist Philosophy is: Thinking is the root cause of all suffering. Think about… (pun intended) Last time you were incredibly happy: How much thinking were you doing? My guess is not much… you were in the moment. And what emotions do you feel when you’re not thinking? Most likely peace, calm, neutrality… You get my point? Any negative emotion you ever have exists because you’re thinking (whether consciously or unconsciously). So how do you stop thinking? In the same way that you would stop holding on to something very heavy: You let go. You stop engaging with your thoughts. Instead you just observe without judgment. You let the snow globe settle. That’s when clarity and peace follows. Your mind isn’t a problem to solve, it’s a storm to weather. Your role isn’t to fight the storm but to remain grounded and calm as it passes. PS: What I’m reading: The Art of Racing in the Rain - Garth Stein PPS: Last week I filmed a new Youtube Video on how to create more meaning in your life. |
Alex Ostergaard
Join 600+ readers of The Confident You Newsletter for weekly tips & tricks on how to increase Self-Confidence and live a more fulfilling life.
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