Thursday, August 1, 2013

Anais Nin Quotes on Why We See the World the Way We See It


We don’t see things as they are, we see them as we are.  ~ Anais Nin

In general, who we are reflects the environment in which we were raised. Who we become is a matter of choice.

Most of us believe we are who we are by choice. However, our environment has
shaped and tainted our view of reality. If we came from an environment that was filled with threats from community and family, the world might appear to be an unsafe place. Our perspective would be tainted with fear. We would become fearful and suspicious of people and opportunity. This view on life could most likely cause us to miss out on fabulous relationships and tremendous opportunities. Yet, we would most likely disguise ourselves as tough and exhibit shrewd behavior that sends a message that we don’t mess around. At the same time, the fear would close the door to opportunity and we would justify it by pointing out faults.

On the other hand, if we were raised in an environment where wealth, exploration and abundance were embraced, we might be open-minded towards people and situations. We may lack the fear to know that failure is possible. Our environment would have made us curious and eager for accomplishment even if we encountered obstacles. Einstein said it best: "I have no special talent. I am only passionately curious.”

If our lives are limited to what our environment gave us as reality, we have nothing to do with what we think, do or say. We will always reflect what our environment taught us by the examples we witnessed throughout the years.

Therefore, it is imperative to clearly distinguish who our environment has shaped us to be. Once we can see that, we have a choice to become who we want to be. As a result of becoming who we want, the world will appear to be something it has never been for us.

What do you think? I’m open to ideas. Or if you want to write me about a specific topic, connect through my blog www.turnaroundip.blogspot.com.




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