Chapter 1: The Unconscious Self
CHOOSING PRESENCE PP. 3-5
The first step on journey to presence is understanding the influence of the unconscious mind on your daily life.
Summary
Let’s dive into Freud’s idea of the unconscious mind—basically, the hidden storage space for your thoughts, emotions, memories, and desires that you’re not actively aware of. Even though you don’t always notice them, they have a big impact on how you feel and act. When left unchecked, they can stir up stress and anxiety. The key takeaway? Becoming more aware of these hidden influences can help you live more mindfully and stay present in the moment.
To live in the unconscious mind is to be physically here when our mind is somewhere else. It is a life driven by distractions, when we allow the situations to upset us emotionally both inside and out.
— Choosing Presence, p. 4
A Moment for Reflection
Pause for a moment and reflect on the following three questions:
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Reflect on the times when your thoughts drift away from what is happening now. How does this affect your emotions, decisions, and relationships?
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Consider whether there are deep-seated fears, assumptions, or habits that shape your behavior without you realizing it. Where do they come from, and are they serving you?
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Imagine approaching life with more awareness. How would it change your stress levels, relationships, and overall well-being?
Remember to Download the Free Practicing Presence App!
Start your day with a morning meditation and get hourly reminders to return to presence with three conscious breaths. This free app is an essential tool for deepening your practice and staying connected with God’s presence.
Deepening the Practice: Journal Prompt
Our unconscious mind holds thoughts, emotions, and memories that shape our reactions and decisions, often without us realizing it. By bringing these hidden influences into awareness, we can better understand ourselves and cultivate a more present way of living.
Think of a time when you reacted strongly to a situation but weren’t entirely sure why. What emotions came up? What past experiences or beliefs might have influenced your reaction? Write freely about any insights that emerge and how you might approach similar situations with more awareness in the future.