Whether at school, work, or even at the comforts of our own home, feedback or criticisms would always be around. It is something that seems to accompany our thoughts and actions once felt and examined by other people around us. Upon hearing any of those comments, it is a natural human tendency to react or respond to the stimulus that we perceived. However, though it's a normal human tendency to do so, the fault lies on how we manage our reaction or response, for the latter elicits mindfulness while the former may lack one.
Mindfulness, as described by Paul Jun of entrepreneur, "is about focusing on the present and being aware of your thoughts and feelings without judgment." Thus mindfulness is really necessary especially when dealing with comments and some blows dealt against you. It is through a certain degree of focus and objectivity, that you may still conduct yourself with finesse despite the unruly environment, may it be caused by a person or an event.
Others out of habit may find it difficult to practice mindfulness and as result they are usually engaged into heated debates despite the superficiality of its cause. But for some, mindfulness has been part and parceled of their way of dealing with things and people around them. Achieving mindfulness requires something less, for it suggests more of self-emptying and reflection. It may sound abstract and a bit oriental, but according to the Association for Psychological Science, mindfulness could be achieved through a simple meditation. Andrew Hafenbrack, researcher and lead author, stated via helpscout that;
"We found that a brief period of mindfulness meditation can encourage people to make more rational decisions by considering the information available in the present moment, while ignoring some of the other concerns that typically exacerbate the 'sunk cost bias.'"
Russ Roberts, the author of "How Adam Smith Can Change Your Life", also explained that mindfulness can be achieved by being an "impartial spectator." He deepens this notion by explaining that in order for you to be mindful you should learn to see yourself as others do. Roberts further explained his concept of impartial spectator by explaining that;
"Imagining an impartial spectator encourages us to step outside ourselves and view ourselves as others see us. Stepping outside yourself is an opportunity for what is sometimes called mindfulness-the art of paying attention instead of drifting through life oblivious to your flaws and habits."
Now in retrospect, we have discussed the importance of mindfulness and how it is to be achieved by becoming an impartial spectator and by practicing meditation. Therefore, we may conclude that mindfulness does not only suggest of being mindful of the thoughts, words, and actions of other people. Mindfulness on the very foundation of it is more of becoming self-aware, thoughtful, and mentally present when we making a particular decision.
Before this article ends, it's good to be mindful that the tips stated above are part of the many ways that you may achieve mindfulness. There are many ways that lead to the path of being mindful, but the ones highlighted above are the most common and easy ways which we sometimes do not mind.
