Sometimes, there is a benefit to shock value because it forces our minds to process things just a little bit differently. So, for the next 6 days, we are going to engage in some alternative, uncomfortable thinking.
We can discover some paths that, when followed, will unquestionably take us towards defeat and sorrow. This discovery will empower us to stay away from those highways. We can learn the road signs so that we can get off the highway if we are on one, and then we will find a better road to travel together.
The first superhighway to the land of your nightmares is the “Feelings First Freeway”.
The traveler makes decisions based on what helps him to feel good or what helps him avoid feeling bad. The traveler stops reasoning and ceases to look ahead for the consequences of his actions. When a situation arises that doesn’t offer an opportunity to feel good, his decisions will be based on avoiding that situation entirely.
When faced with a challenge or pain, this person will resist the idea of trying to find the good in the situation or will refuse to acknowledge the growth opportunities.
His thoughts will be controlled by his feelings – when he feels pressured or cheated or angered, he will allow his mind to dwell on it. When he feels good or encouraged or happy, he will allow his mind to dwell on it. Feelings dictate thinking on the “Feelings First Freeway”.
The traveler on this highway will miss countless lessons and chances for joy because he is too bogged down with his own feelings. He will start to be disillusioned with the high points on the road because he knows another low point is just around the bend. He will keep searching for the next mountaintop experience, only to keep finding himself in the next valley that follows.
Is this happening to you in some form? I have an affirmation that I mentioned in an earlier segment that addresses this: “My actions are based on what I know I should be doing and not on my emotions. My emotions are ever-changing.”
- Exercise:
Have you ever found yourself on the “Feelings First Freeway”?
Are you on it now?
If so, recognize where, and write down one positive thing about the situation. Choose today to let your mind focus on the positive thing you have written.
Integral Development Forum 