The phrase "what you resist persists" suggests that when you actively fight against or try to suppress certain thoughts, emotions, or experiences, those very things tend to grow stronger or remain prominent in your life. This concept draws from various psychological and philosophical frameworks, particularly in the realms of psychotherapy and mindfulness, and can be explored in several ways:
1. Psychological Perspective:
- Repression: In psychology, repressing emotions often causes them to resurface in unhealthy ways. When we resist or avoid facing painful feelings or thoughts, they can manifest as anxiety, stress, or even physical symptoms.
- Cognitive Dissonance: When we hold two conflicting beliefs (such as wanting to express an emotion but feeling we shouldn’t), it can create mental tension. This tension often leads one to become preoccupied with the very thing they’re resisting.
2. Mindfulness Approach:
- Acceptance: Mindfulness teaches that by accepting our thoughts and emotions without judgment, we allow them to pass more freely rather than clinging to or fighting against them. This acceptance can reduce their hold over us.
- Present Moment Focus: Instead of resisting what is happening, focusing on the present can help in recognizing that difficult feelings are transient and can be acknowledged without control over our well-being.
3. Behavioral Aspect:
- Avoidance Behavior: Resisting something often means we’re engaging in avoidance, which can lead to an increase in anxiety and fear regarding that situation or feeling. For example, avoiding confrontation can lead to unresolved issues that may escalate over time.
- Cycle of Resistance: The more we resist, the more we might find ourselves thinking about the subject of our resistance, leading to a cyclical pattern where exactly what we want to avoid becomes more prominent in our lives.
4. Philosophical Insight:
- Existential Acceptance: Many philosophical traditions suggest that suffering is part of the human experience. Embracing and accepting our struggles rather than resisting them can lead to personal growth and a deeper understanding of ourselves.
- Surrendering to Life: Some philosophical teachings advocate for an attitude of surrender or acceptance, suggesting that by letting go of the need to control or resist, we might find peace and clarity.
5. Practical Implications:
- Taking Action: Recognizing what you resist can provide insight into areas of your life where growth is possible. Instead of rejecting uncomfortable feelings or experiences, exploring them can lead to personal development.
- Emotional Release: Allowing yourself to feel and process emotions rather than resisting them can lead to emotional release and a greater sense of well-being.
Conclusion:
The idea that "what you resist persists" ultimately serves as a reminder that avoidance often exacerbates discomfort. Embracing experiences and feelings, no matter how challenging, can lead to a greater sense of peace and resilience. Engaging with those aspects of ourselves that we wish to avoid—through reflection, dialogue, or therapeutic practices—can often lead to a richer, more fulfilling life.