‘Seeking Truth’ — a tool for change
May 2nd, 2008 by spaceagesage
There comes a time when we take a hard look in the mirror and want to change what we see. We then start to create deep meaningful change in our lives. It doesn’t have to be during a mid-life crisis or after a near-death experience. We can begin anytime. In a previous post, I covered seven powerful tools to create real change based on the work of authors Don Riso and Russ Hudson in their book The Wisdom of the Enneagram. Here is a deeper look at #1, Seeking Truth:
Become Curious
One of the best ways to approach issues, fears or doubts is to become curious about them in a self exploration kind of way, as opposed to a guilt-inducing way: Where does this anger come from? Why do I fear success? It seems I sabotage my own career each time a promotion comes into view, why? This depression gets worse in winter, and I wonder why? By putting the issue in the light of curiosity, we can objectify it more. It’s like putting our issues out on a table and analyzing them with scientific wonder. That helps distance us from the habitual emotional response and makes it harder for the usual responses to keep holding us back, responses like, I was born this way, My family is to blame, and It is just because my life is so unfair. Curiosity can be a healing mindset.
Become Dedicated
It is easy to shield ourselves from ourselves, but to achieve personal growth, we have to push the envelope. In order to reach that point of inner peace and feeling comfortable in our own skin, we have to travel some rough roads called healing. Healing a wounded heart, spirit, and soul do not come by painting on a happy face and forcing yourself to sing happy songs all day. It comes via some heart- and gut-wrenching insights where we look in a mirror with the full light of day shining on us. By mentally planting your flag boldly to declare your intent and telling yourself, “I will make this journey no matter the bumps or bruises or battles!” you allow yourself to move forward with strength.
Become Humble
The truth can seem scary, like a sharp, penetrating sword into our selves, but I prefer to see it this way, “The truth shall set you free!” Being teachable is a bit of a prerequisite for this to happen. Being arrogant, selfish, and hostile doesn’t much help a person seek the truth. If I want to become a better person, a saner human, and a more healed individual, I know those changes come by putting aside pride. Humility isn’t about mousy meekness, it is about a vast inner strength that says, I don’t have to be top dog. I want wisdom more than attention. I refuse to let my ego play me for a fool.
POCKET-THOUGHT:
Seeking truth is always a worthwhile journey. It is a lifetime thing, rarely hurried by our impatience, but it is so healing. Sara Paddison, author of The Hidden Power of the Heart writes:
Being vulnerable doesn’t have to be threatening. Just have the courage to be sincere, open and honest. This opens the door to deeper communication all around. It creates self-empowerment and the kind of connections with others we all want in life. Speaking from the heart frees us from the secrets that burden us. These secrets are what make us sick or fearful. Speaking truth helps you get clarity on your real heart directives.
What is your heart saying to you?
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Photo credit: speech path girl