For most individuals, the subconscious is an enigmatic and perplexing realm. It gets linked to phenomena like dreams, intuition, and that elusive “sixth sense” that often influences our choices without us even noticing it. Many view the subconscious as a reservoir of latent talents and capabilities, a potential source of greatness and success.
However, it’s crucial to recognize that the subconscious isn’t another dimension or a treasure trove of greatness. It functions as a program responsible for overseeing all bodily processes, as well as managing our interests, fears, automatic responses, and more.
Understanding How the Subconscious Works
The primary mission of the subconscious is to safeguard not only our individual survival but also the perpetuation of our species. Consequently, it plays a pivotal role in governing our interpersonal relationships. It helps us differentiate between friends and foes, as well as potential partners from those with whom we might not share common ground.
The subconscious advises us to pay attention to attractive individuals, slow down when encountering road accidents, or respond with indignation when someone online disrespects our homeland.
Outdated Subconscious Programs
The behavioral programs directing our actions have evolved over millions of years and passed down through generations. However, these programs don’t always seamlessly align with the complexities of the 21st century.
Take, for example, the persistent attraction some women feel toward “bad boys.” They may intellectually grasp that forming a happy family with a muscular bully seems unlikely, yet their subconscious persistently whispers, “Max is a great mate. He’ll vanquish all adversaries, secure sustenance, and maybe you’ll benefit too. As for the lanky programmer Steve, he’ll likely succumb in the first Neanderthal clash. What’s the use of having an offspring with him?”
Another instance: Numerous middle-aged men engage in extramarital affairs, despite the evident harm it causes, including the potential for nerve-wracking and costly divorces. Yet an inner voice insinuates, “Peter, you’re already forty, and our species’ lifespan isn’t that long. You must hasten to leave behind as many descendants as possible.” Of course, pursuing romantic liaisons with women of similar age, who’ve borne a dozen children and lost their teeth, isn’t the path to preserving your valuable gene pool. Instead, it’s through a young maiden with her life ahead of her.
After succumbing to such primal impulses, people often find themselves perplexed, wondering, “What on earth possessed me?” These aren’t curses but rather behavioral programs designed for different circumstances.
The Ancient Settings of the Subconscious
The degree to which those ancient settings manifest themselves varies from person to person, but they can never be entirely switched off. The conflict between our conscious plans and our subconscious desires constantly leads to trouble. These conflicts are so important to us that much of our literature and a substantial portion of philosophy revolves around them, underscoring our deep-seated desire to comprehend this mechanism.
Let’s consider the classic tale of Romeo and Juliet. Their inner programming urged them to be together, but the constraints of their circumstances prevented it. Going against their hearts caused unhappiness, while following their desires shattered social norms and, in their case, resulted in tragedy.
This dual struggle is a recurring theme in life, from our career aspirations to our search for life’s purpose.
How to Establish Harmony with Your Subconscious
Resolving the conflict with our subconscious offers only two viable options: parting ways or reaching a compromise. Yet, given that we can’t evade our subconscious, the latter becomes our inevitable choice.
But how does one strike a deal with the subconscious, an entity devoid of personality and the “self”? The solution: we need to invent one.
Picture this: your subconscious boasts an interface, akin to Siri or Google Assistant on your smartphone, allowing you to engage in dialogue, negotiate, and establish common ground.
Find a tranquil spot, close your eyes, and initiate a conversation with your subconscious. Ask questions such as, “What should I call you?”, “What do you look like?”, and “How are you feeling?”
Prepare to be astounded.
These Aren’t the “Voices in Your Head”
Some people might view this practice as peculiar because conversing with “imaginary friends” is often associated with mental health concerns. However, this belief doesn’t prevent us from communicating with artificial intelligence, albeit one devoid of real “self.” It’s both convenient and effective, and it’s foolish to dismiss talking to Siri, Google Assistant, or ChatGPT because some feel strange conversing with virtual entities.
Furthermore, consider the countless times you’ve engaged in inner dialogues with imaginary people, envisioning scenarios that would never transpire in reality. Reflect upon your own thoughts and fantasies. Aren’t these practices a familiar and integral part of your life?
The Practical Aspect
For me, talking to my subconscious is like a psychological tool. It helps me understand its motivation, worries, and joys. When my subconscious is content, it boosts my energy, keeps me in a positive mood, and generates creative ideas, which is precisely what I need.
Crucially, it’s essential to separate your conscious desires from your subconscious ones. This separation allows you to address deep internal conflicts from the beginning. You start to grasp why you want conflicting things at the same time and get to the root of the matter.
With this awareness, you can find practical solutions, ultimately leading to the most valuable outcome, inner peace.
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