Navigating through the complexities of the business world and the intricate web of human psychology, I've gained some profound insights into the nature of time and its value. Here’s what I’ve learned from my career selling chemicals and my deeper dive into hypnotherapy and psychological concepts.
From Commodity to Specialty: A Career Perspective
Starting out in the early 90s, my first job involved selling industrial and food grade chemicals. This introduced me to the concepts of "commodity" and "specialty" products. Commodities are abundant and cheap—think large volumes sold at low prices. On the flip side, specialty products are rare and expensive, reflecting their scarcity and unique value in the market.This distinction became a powerful metaphor for how I view time. Initially, I saw time as a commodity—always available and inexpensive in the grand scheme of life. However, as I grew older, I realized that time is more akin to a specialty product—limited in supply and of immense value.
Embracing the Present: A Shift in Time Perspective
As years pass, the reality of mortality becomes more apparent. Reflecting on my life, I noticed that I was often "future-oriented," always planning ahead and trying to manage what comes next. But perspectives shift. Inspired by social psychologist Philip Zimbardo’s exploration of how we orient our lives around time (See video here), I've learned the importance of being "present-oriented."Time, I've realized, is not an endless commodity but a finite resource of unparalleled value. This understanding is crucial not only in life but also in managing mental health.
The Role of Time in Hypnotherapy and Mental Health
In hypnotherapy, time plays a dynamic role. Individuals struggling with depression or PTSD often grapple with past traumas, while those with anxiety fear future uncertainties. These psychological challenges underscore a vital truth: the past is immutable, and the future is often beyond our control. The subconscious mind, engaged deeply in hypnotherapy, perceives time differently from our conscious minds. To it, time is merely a construct. This explains why traumas from childhood can continue to affect us in adulthood—the subconscious mind lives in the perpetual present, dealing with immediate experiences without the ability to differentiate past threats from current realities.
Understanding the Subconscious: The Key to Therapeutic Change
The subconscious mind is driven by basic needs: safety, comfort, and pleasure. It naturally resists change, striving to maintain a state of homeostasis. This resistance is why our "animal brain" often overpowers our more rational, conscious thoughts, especially when we're trying to enact significant life changes. Recognizing this can dramatically improve therapeutic outcomes. Hypnotherapy provides a direct line to the subconscious, allowing for the reprogramming of the "software" in which it operates. By updating these patterns, we can equip the mind with better resources to handle life's challenges.
Time, like the specialty products I used to sell, is precious and limited. Understanding its true value and how our minds interact with it can lead us to a healthier, more present-oriented life. This realization is not just about personal growth but also about finding more effective ways to approach therapy and mental wellness.
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