Flexible Mind is a Happy Mind
What is Flexible Mind?
Flexible Mind is the ability to adapt our behaviors and thinking for what is needed in the moment. To be open, let go of fears, old habits, rigid beliefs and expectations of ourselves, others, and the world that may be keeping us stuck. Flexible Mind allows us to boldly try new things, grieve the loss of past hurts, and live fulfilled and content in the present moment.
Flexible Mind has long been pursued in mindfulness practices and cognitive behavioral therapies and is the core principle in Radically Open DBT, a new break-through treatment modality for disorders of over-control.
Flexible Mind is the solution to behaviors, thoughts, and emotions that are derived from Fixed or Fatalistic Mind that contribute to distressing experiences and strained relationships.
Can I benefit from a Flexible Mind?
We all can! Even me! I practice finding my Flexible Mind every day (notice I said practice, it is a skill that is developed over time). One of the ways I accomplish this is through a daily Self-Inquiry practice. Self-Inquiry is a mindfulness tradition from Malamati Suffism which asks us to use our distressing and unwanted emotions as opportunities of new learning about ourselves. If you are interested in learning more, there are several resources to help you start your practice.
- An Introduction to Self-Enquiry online course
Do I have a Fixed Mind or Fatalistic Mind?
A Fixed Mind is our ‘fighter.’ A Fixed Mind blocks us from change as we believe we already know the answer. Signs of a Fixed Mind can be feeling irritated, resentful, angry, and anxious along with urges to be stubborn, explain, defend, control and correct others.
Fatalistic Mind is our ‘escape artist.’ Fatalistic Mind blocks change as we believe there is no answer. Signs of Fatalistic Mind are feeling sad, unappreciated, misunderstood, and shutdown. Its related to thoughts of being a failure and urges to hide, walk away, disappear, or ignore the problem.
If you can identify with being in Fixed or Fatalistic Mind, no worries, we’ve all been there. Now you know there is something you can do to change it!
