How do you feel when you see the man afraid of this happy dog?
What sensations do you feel in your body as you react to this image?
Where do you feel these reactions? If you pay attention to where you feel changes internally, notice if you can recall another time when the sensations felt similar? What comes up for you?
Let’s explore the significance of this.
Perception refers to how the awareness we experience is interpreted as we become conscious of things, relationships, and situations through our senses.
As individuals, our sensory reactions can vary from one person to the next. Not one of us is exactly like the other.
During the crazy times we are living through, how has our perception of everyday occurrences changed or stayed the same?
If it has transformed from what it might have been, how does it feel? Regardless of how it may be different, how do you perceive the shift? What feels important about this?
When our perceptions reflect a negative bias, as could be expressed in the image, ‘we may be filtering out the positive aspects of a situation, while magnifying the negative and imaging the absolute worst’ (CIT, Life University 2020).
Depending on what our perceptions may be, how can this influence the outcome of any situation?
Could we take advantage of having the power to make our own choices to alter possible outcomes if we don’t care for our initial perceptions? Why might this matter?
When I saw the above image, I immediately reacted. I am fully aware of the controversy about the canine type, Pitbull, and the safety perceived of this breed of dog. I will admit I used to perceive the need for concern. For years, my sister has had dogs of this breed and those dogs have been like big mushy teddy bears with which she has raised her children. I share this with everyone because where I once may have sided with the man in the image, I now would feel sorry for this happy pup who seemingly is just longing for a playmate! It appears that our perception can have a great impact on an outcome.
What might the result be if we listen to our senses with a mindful process of thought to determine what feels best?
What might we sense when we consider planning “ME” time to care for ourselves? How might the way we perceive being first on out “TO_DO” list affect what we feel internally? Why might this be important?
If we can recognize the similarity in feelings that arise in like situations, might we be able to have the outcome we prefer when we become aware of these sensations?
If this sounds complicated, it doesn’t have to be. Today is “ME” Monday®. How would it feel to do somethings small so you had some “ME” time today? Start there.
Today is YOUR day! Enjoy it!
Be safe. Be healthy. Be self-responsible. Be POWERFUL!
Lynn Lessell CHC, CLC, FBS, TCM
The Identity Coach
Certified in Health & Life Transformation
Have questions? Let’s have a quick chat!
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