An idea that never ceases to amaze me is the ability our minds have to get used to anything. We all like to think we have control over the future. Many of us like to have plans and get very attached to these plans. And, when we discuss the possibility of our elaborate plans not working out, we sometimes wonder if we can even handle it. “Unimaginable” sometimes pops to mind.
It turns out, however, that we are actually really bad at predicting how we feel. And, that’s because we largely feel okay. We like to believe life is some sort of fairy tale. Big ups, big downs, etc. Well, it is not – in most cases at least.
Our mind has a great defence mechanism thanks largely to it’s ability to tell stories and find meaning around these stories. These stories ensure we never feel debilitated by disappointments – that’s how we’ve managed to even survive inhuman concentration camps.
It’s a great thing to keep in mind the next time you feel you are attached to a particular outcome. If it works out, that’s great. And, if it doesn’t, don’t worry – you’ll find a new outcome to get yourself attached to in no time. Your mind is the ultimate “don’t-take-it-personally-instead-move-on-and-get-shit-done” machine.
A Learning a Day 