Our Conscious & Subconscious Minds
The conscious mind is the part of our mind that is aware of our thoughts, feelings, and sensations. It is the part of our mind that we use to think, reason, and make decisions.
The subconscious mind is the part of our mind that is not aware of our thoughts, feelings, and sensations. It is the part of our mind that controls our automatic behaviors, such as breathing, heartbeat, and digestion. It is also the part of our mind that stores our memories and emotions.
The conscious and subconscious minds can work together to help us achieve our goals. For example, if we consciously decide to lose weight, our subconscious mind can help us to make healthier food choices and to exercise regularly.
However, the conscious and subconscious minds can also work against each other. For example, if we consciously decide to quit smoking, our subconscious mind may crave nicotine and make it difficult for us to resist the temptation to smoke.
Here are some examples of how the conscious and subconscious minds can work together:
- Learning a new skill: When we are learning a new skill, such as playing a musical instrument or speaking a new language, our conscious mind is responsible for focusing on the task and learning the new information. Our subconscious mind is responsible for storing the new information and making it automatic.
- Overcoming a fear: If we have a fear of something, such as heights or spiders, our conscious mind can help us to face our fear by exposing ourselves to it in a safe and controlled environment. Our subconscious mind can help us to learn that our fear is not real and that we are safe.
- Achieving a goal: If we have a goal that we want to achieve, such as losing weight or starting a business, our conscious mind can help us to set a plan and to take action. Our subconscious mind can help us to stay motivated and to overcome challenges.
However, the conscious and subconscious minds can also work against each other. Here are some examples:
- Self-sabotage: If we have a negative belief about ourselves, such as “I’m not good enough,” our subconscious mind may sabotage our efforts to succeed. For example, we may procrastinate, make excuses, or give up easily.
- Addiction: If we are addicted to something, such as drugs or alcohol, our subconscious mind may crave the addictive substance and make it difficult for us to resist the temptation to use it.
- Anxiety and depression: If we have anxiety or depression, our subconscious mind may generate negative thoughts and feelings that make it difficult for us to function.
It is important to be aware of the relationship between the conscious and subconscious minds so that we can work together to achieve our goals and live our best lives.
Here are some tips for working with the conscious and subconscious minds:
- Set clear goals. The more specific and clear your goals are, the easier it will be for your subconscious mind to help you achieve them.
- Focus on the positive. Your subconscious mind is more responsive to positive thoughts and emotions. Focus on what you want to achieve, rather than what you don’t want.
- Take action. Your subconscious mind needs you to take action in order to achieve your goals. Don’t just wait for things to happen. Make a plan and start taking steps towards your goals.
- Be patient. It takes time to change your subconscious mind. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results immediately. Just keep working at it, and eventually you will reach your goals.
If you are struggling to work with your conscious and subconscious minds, you may want to consider seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor. They can help you to identify and change your negative beliefs, to develop positive self-talk, and to overcome challenges.