Why Are We So Bad At Taking Our Own Advice??

[Gamereign555]

Ohh I'm sure some of us take our own advice. If one doesn't take their own advice I think they must lack faith in their answer or their ability to accomplish it.

 

[shell]

Denial, some times it easier to see others problem clearly, but when we are emotionally involved its hard to make a detached decision, or choose the right option.

 

[James B.]

What shell said sparked a thought.

That being in "the eye" of something (our lives) makes (or can make) objective thinking difficult. Or so it seems.

There is perhaps the "legitimate" difficulty, then the denial. And perhaps beyond that maybe self-defeating patterns. These patterns may be linked (in some ways/cases) to a deeply rooted form of low-self esteem. A "core belief" that we (the sufferer) doesn't deserve success, happiness, etc. Not trying to sound "clinical" , just thinking out loud.

Good topic.

 

[Gamereign555]

Maybe it is that seldom do you realize that you had given advice about the exact situation you were in. I think even if you do remember, you won't see the situation as the same. Then there is James's point also. Beyond that I think this is more like a math problem or something crazy, this question is so open wide there is a thousand answers.

I am yet still trying to figure out an answer though, very good question.

 

[Muzikluvr]

I have thought a lot about that for myself, Revelry and the answer is simple.

My emotions will not be dictated by my logic.

I am rebellious.

There are lots of core beliefs and painful experiences that back my emotions up in rebelling against my logical mind, and those emotions win because they fill my body with molasses and I become lethargic and slow to think when my emotions are triggered. Then, I know I need to pay the bills... but can't remember my passwords... can't move to open the budget and figure out what's due when and what can wait for the next paycheck. (I'm paying bills today. :D It's a good day. But, I procrastinated before.)

Anyway, my emotions need to be changed, and they don't change as easily as my mind does. So, I have to go back through all the experiences, and especially all the suicidal ideation and worthlessness that I feel, and address that stuff so that I can feel good about taking care of myself and my present life.

 

[James B.]

I like what Sqweak wrote, too.

and especially all the suicidal ideation and worthlessness that I feel, and address that stuff so that I can feel good about taking care of myself and my present life

That's is/was me pretty much too. Thanks Muzlkluvr.