It may seem odd to think that one needs to feel safe in order to be happy, yet many people avoid the states of joy and peace. They withhold thoughts and expectations regarding happiness in attempts to protect themselves. Oftentimes used as a coping mechanism, withholding is a temporary solution to combat the fear of disappointment. Some call it guarding their hearts but the underlying issue may be connected to the idea of losing the happiness they ultimately desire.
The Guard
When speaking about guarding one’s heart against potential threats to mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being, we must understand the concept in order to properly manage the environment within us. If not, we may find ourselves afraid to love, hope, explore, and grow. Guarding one’s heart is not this concept of a stonewall that prevents entry; it should be likened to a filter. Stonewalls keep others out but at the same time they also imprison you. On the other hand, guards have the role of filtering thoughts and concepts before granting access. A guard also has the role of escorting unfruitful thoughts and concepts out. In regards to happiness, our safety is really found in the guard. The quality and nature of the guard determines your level of security.
If the guard or filter isn’t healthy, anchored in love and truth, chances are you won’t experience the peace required to actually feel secure. When one lives a fear-based lifestyle nothing appears to be safe. There will always be this anxiety about the future and belief that defeat is lurking around the corner. This is why many people find themselves uneasy when all is well; they are in a space of joy, expecting chaos. Again, if the filter is toxic, the experience will be also (even if it’s not one’s reality).
Safety & the World Around You
Feeling safe in your happiness starts with taking a look at the guard; the filter or schema through which you view life and more specifically your life. Too often, people take cues from the world around them to determine their personal journey. While this may be a result of human logic, we must be aware of the unseen and inner world at work influencing the physical experiences we have. Two people can live through the same set of circumstances and grow to experience two very different lifestyles. Knowing this truth takes your destiny from being a mere byproduct of your environment to being divinely orchestrated. It opens up a world of possibilities and more opportunities for happiness.
Life Work
Set aside at least 5 minutes per day for the next three days to reflect on your Guard; the lens through which you look at life.
Ask the following questions:
What is my perception/expectation of life overall?
What is my perception/expectation of daily life?
What are my heart’s desires for daily living & life overall?
Who and what has shaped my perception/expectation about life and daily living?
Does my perception/expectation align with my heart’s desires?
Be transparent and honest with yourself as well as being open to hearing/gaining new insight.
Remember to journal your experience.
--
Tashima Jones is an author and life coach who focuses on personal development and building inner-wealth. Tap here for more on her coaching sessions. Not a Member? Join the Club here.
This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.