SHAME
We're desperately afraid of sharing what we're ashamed of. Most likely, we've buried the memories deep down, and the very thought of sharing them with others makes us shiver. But each time we think of them, it feels like it's slowly eating us from the inside.
Log
20 out of 1000
Life view
We live life as if we're not worthy of anything. We don't take credit for anything and feel like our life has little or no meaning at all. We think that all we do is wrong and that there is nothing we do that is right.
Emotions
Worthlessness, meaninglessness, embarrassment, powerlessness, loneliness, insignificance
God/higher power-View
Our reason for existence is little to none, and if there was a God/higher power, he despises us.
Process
We are looking for a way out. The pain we're feeling inside is unbearable; hence we want to eliminate it. Our mind reasons that the quickest way to do so is by ending our life.
Primary drive
I don't want to live. I don't amount to anything. I'm not good enough.
Rate of happiness
1%
Mode
We feel like a victim and abused by the world.
How it feels
We're desperately afraid of sharing what we're ashamed of. Most likely, we've buried the memories deep down, and the very thought of sharing them with others makes us shiver. But each time we think of them, it feels like it's slowly eating us from the inside.
Actions
We look down when we walk. We rarely, if ever, do anything that makes us even the slightest uncomfortable. To argue is out of the question. We don't stand up for anything and follow other people because they are better than we are, in our eyes.
Warning
Running away from this feeling and pushing it down is very common. But to do so would make it even worse.
Good news
Shame is like having an enormous amount of feelings bottled, weighing us down. But as soon as we start taking action to let them go, we will feel our mood increase drastically. We see the results of even the slightest move in the right direction.
Origins of Shame
Shame often arises from external judgments and social conditioning. It's not inherent within us but is instilled through societal norms and standards. Over time, this externally driven emotion can become deeply internalized, making us believe it's an intrinsic part of our identity.
Recognizing the Triggers
Hawkins emphasized the importance of recognizing the external triggers of shame. It could be critical remarks from family during childhood, traumatic experiences, or societal pressures. Recognizing the origin helps in addressing and healing it.
Shame and Its Impact on Health
Hawkins also talked about the physical manifestations of shame. When shame is continually suppressed, it can lead to various health issues, ranging from mental disorders to physical ailments. It's essential to understand that shame doesn't just affect the mind but also the body.
Moving Beyond Shame
Acceptance:
Hawkins believed in the power of acceptance. Accepting the feelings of shame without judgment can start the healing process.
Seek Professional Help:
For some, professional guidance might be needed to navigate the complexities of shame. Therapists or counselors can provide tools and strategies to deal with and overcome shame.
Spiritual Practice:
Engaging in spiritual practices can be a pathway out of shame. Meditation, prayer, and contemplation can provide solace and a broader perspective.
Affirmations:
Affirming one's worth and value can counteract feelings of shame. Replacing negative self-talk with positive affirmations can shift the energy of shame.
