We cannot choose the events that happen in our lives; sometimes they are the most unexpected. When such events occur, what matters most is how we respond to them. In this regard, mindfulness has played a significant role in helping me overcome these unexpected setbacks. Often, when we go through setbacks, the memories of those events continue to resurface, leaving us debilitated and disempowered. We tend to make incorrect conclusions based on these setbacks, and constantly reliving them creates a deep-seated trauma within us. Personally, I have experienced a few setbacks that were completely unexpected. Our growth and happiness depend on how swiftly we can overcome these setbacks. Surprisingly, there are individuals who have been unable to overcome certain setbacks even after a decade.
This is where mindfulness has acted as an elixir for me. I never realized how my daily formal practice, where I develop the capacity to be aware of whatever arises in my mind with a sense of witnessing and then letting go, could rescue me from reliving those memories. Whenever I found myself getting caught up in those memories, I could step back, let go of the thoughts and emotions, and save myself from ruminating and enduring emotionally distressing days. This helped me attain a mental state where I could see the possibility of a comeback. With the right mental state, I was able to take cohesive actions to aid my recovery and give my best.
Another significant shift that occurred was my ability to let go and forgive the people who were involved in some of these events. Whenever I think about them, I hold no strong emotions or any grudges against them.
More than feeling proud of this, I am immensely grateful that through my practice, I have cultivated an inner world where I can let go of everything unpleasant and yet maintain a highly optimistic outlook towards life and people. Do you also have personal strategies that have helped you overcome challenges? I would love to hear about your experiences.
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