The Pursuit of Authenticity
Authenticity, the art of being true to oneself, begins with a journey of self-discovery. The start of that journey lies within our unconscious behavior.
Unconscious Behavior: The 95% State
The start of that journey lies within our unconscious behavior. We often hear the term “on autopilot” used to describe our state of mind during various routine activities. These are the activities that have become so habitual that they require minimal conscious awareness or effort. During such times, we essentially operate on pre-established patterns, learned behaviors, and ingrained habits without actively deliberating or consciously processing the specific steps involved. This is what we refer to as Unconscious Behavior or being in an unconscious state. In reality, it means that we are not fully aware or not fully engaged in the present moment.
Some experts suggest that we are in this unconscious state about 95% of the time, and although that may seem hard to believe, it includes various states of mind:
Distracted: Our attention might be pulled in many different directions, making it hard to focus on any one thing. This can happen when we’re multitasking or when our minds are wandering.
Preoccupied: Sometimes, our thoughts are so consumed with worries, plans, or memories that we simply can’t fully engage with what’s happening around us.
Automated: As referenced earlier, this is when we’re on autopilot. For example, think of driving a familiar route and not remembering the details of the trip. We’re functioning, but not fully engaged or conscious of our actions.
Disconnected: This can refer to being emotionally detached or disconnected from our feelings. We might be going through the motions without truly feeling or understanding our emotional state.
Inattentive: Sometimes, we might simply not be paying attention. We might be physically present but mentally somewhere else, missing what’s happening right in front of us.
Reactive: In this state, we might act or respond without thinking, letting habits or impulses guide our actions rather than thoughtful awareness.
Daydreaming: Our minds might drift into fantasies, memories, or thoughts unrelated to our current situation. It’s a normal and often creative state but represents a form of disengagement from the immediate surroundings.
In this context, the 95% estimation seems pretty accurate when we realize that our habits, routines, and unconscious thoughts dictate much of our daily lives without us even realizing it. This is a natural and universal human experience, and it’s not necessarily bad or wrong. In fact, these unconscious processes are essential, as they help us navigate life efficiently without having to consciously think through every single action. However, being in these states too often or at inappropriate times can lead to negative consequences such as misunderstandings, mistakes, or missed opportunities.
Cultivating Awareness and Authenticity
Awareness, as it turns out, is a skill that can be strengthened. In the journey of self-discovery, we want to do more than just strengthen awareness; we want to gain insight into our unconscious state containing thoughts, memories, feelings, and desires outside our conscious awareness but still capable of influencing our actions. Understanding these unconscious processes can be beneficial, allowing us to uncover what truly influences our actions and why we do what we do, act how we act, and even think how we think.
By understanding our inner workings, we can make intentional choices that align with our true desires. It’s a starting point that allows us to live more consciously and authentically.
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