MAKING SNAP DECISIONS: PART III
So, you’ve read parts I and II of our 3-part series; you’ve let your curiosity lead you inward, you’ve uncovered some heuristics that aren’t serving you and you’re ready to be rid of them. Fortunately, while we can’t (and wouldn’t want to) do away with them entirely, the brain’s remarkable adaptability does make it possible to tweak our heuristic patterns.
Retraining one’s heuristic processes primarily requires deepening into the awareness of the existing patterns. The more fully this awareness is explored, the more you’ll be able to challenge your unconscious frameworks and create new ones.
Working with a skilled therapist can be very helpful in understanding how our previous experiences are acting as a filter in our present, and in subsequently integrating those experiences to give us a more objective view of our surroundings. Talking with a compassionate and trusted friend or peer (maybe someone who’s exploring their own unconscious beliefs) can also be a great way to shed light on your internal workings.
Additionally, mindfulness practices* may be helpful in empowering us to assess non-dangerous stimuli in order to respond more intentionally. Below is a list of mindfulness resources to get you started!
Headspace (App)
https://meditationincolorado.org/
Insight Timer (App)
Keep in mind that since these subconscious patterns are so deeply ingrained in our systems, rewriting them can take a lot of time, work and upkeep. As with all parts of this process, give yourself gentleness and compassion as much as you’re able.
*Mindfulness practices may not be suitable for everyone. We recommend consulting a knowledgeable professional first.