I notice my attention wanders a lot toward the topic of tension, and you share in that. It’s hard not to listen to or read some news, and all of it carries an element of emotional, physical, mental, and spiritual tension for some world events. Temporary relief occurs by turning off the sound and away from the display. The source of that tension does not stop; we suspend its presence in our attention. The quality of tension remains, nonetheless. Tension influences whether we deliberately choose to see, hear, and engage with the sources of tension. That’s an abstract idea, and it’s helpful to translate it with a practical example.
Imagine a tightrope walker gracefully maneuvering across a thin wire high above the ground. The tension in the wire is what keeps them balanced, focused, and in control. It’s the same with our lives. Tension, although sometimes uncomfortable, can catalyze growth and transformation. What do you imagine the tightrope walker believes about that thin wire? Indeed, there is confidence that the wire will not detach from either side that holds the wire in place. What do you imagine the tightrope walker believes about their ability to sustain balance, focus, and control as they move across the wire? Indeed, confidence that their skill practice, muscle memory, and experience tip the probability for another successful walk across the wire. Do you wonder why someone becomes a tightrope walker; risking being suspended high above the ground with the potential for instant death as part of the experience? It’s tension. An internal tension that produces adrenaline and other happy chemicals from stretching their belief in their capability for balance, focus, and control in what most perceive as an uncontrollable act.
Tension manifests in various aspects of our lives, whether in relationships, careers, or personal development. Tension arises when we encounter challenges, conflicting desires, or the need for change. During these moments of tension, our beliefs operate – shaping our perceptions, choices, and actions. Unfortunately, the force of those beliefs flows invisibly in the form of habits, preferences, assumptions, and biases. A quick search on Google reports that cognitive neuroscientists believe we are conscious of only about five percent of our mental activity. Most of our decisions, actions, emotions, and behavior depend on the ninety-five percent of brain activity beyond our conscious awareness. Part of the human body’s brain stem is called the reticular activating system, and its job is to look for information that validates our beliefs. When it finds that, the brain receives a filter to regulate habits based upon that validated belief. This biological process explains part of why we believe change is hard; it’s a self-fulfilling prophecy that if you believe change is hard, it will be.
Our beliefs act as lenses through which we view the world. They arise from our experiences, upbringing, and cultural influences. Beliefs shape our reality by guiding our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. They can either serve as empowering allies or limiting barriers. Recognizing and understanding the role of beliefs in tension is crucial for unlocking our potential and embracing transformative growth. Limiting beliefs are invisible walls that confine us, keeping us stuck in old patterns and preventing us from reaching our true potential. Beliefs we recognize as limiting create tension by suppressing our desires and making us doubt our abilities. Maybe you believe you need to be smarter to start your own business or that you’ll never find true love. These beliefs hold you back and keep you in a state of unease.
The fact that we construct beliefs means we can deconstruct them as well. We can challenge them and create new, empowering beliefs that propel us forward. Start by examining the evidence supporting these limiting beliefs. Is it genuinely valid, or just a construct of your mind? Replace self-doubt with self-compassion and curiosity. Explore the possibilities beyond the boundaries of your current beliefs. Embrace the tension that arises when you confront these old beliefs, for growth unfolds in that tension. Like the tightrope walker, feeling the tension fuels alert attention, heightening your sense of self and the internal belief in capability and resourcefulness.
As we challenge and transform our limiting beliefs, tension becomes an ally rather than an adversary. It becomes a source of energy and motivation, propelling us towards our goals. Like the tightrope walker, we learn to embrace the tension as a necessary part of our journey. We develop the resilience to navigate through it, knowing that on the other side lies growth, personal fulfillment, and the manifestation of our true potential. We reshape our reality as we let go of limiting beliefs and embrace new, empowering ones. We embody the belief that we are capable, worthy, and deserving of the life we desire. This shift ignites a powerful force within us, propelling us forward with renewed confidence and purpose. The tension that once held us back now symbolizes our strength and determination.
I believe in the power of love to resolve conflict, heal hurt, and inspire a vision that can manifest a world that works for all. Dignity is the birthright of a human being. No one can take it away from me; however, my circumstances can assault my dignity, leaving me feeling alone and excluded and potentially afraid of my survival. My way of perceiving, experiencing, and making meaning of my circumstances explains my expectation of dignity. My way doesn’t mean others believe as I do, nor do I accept any responsibility to find out about my beliefs. I, however, can feel that tension and allow love to guide me toward curiosity and wonder about another’s experience. As we engage and explore together, it is our mutual love of life that bridges divides and begins the path toward healing and the wholeness love always knows.
Although often uncomfortable, tension holds within it the transformative power to shape our lives. By recognizing the role of beliefs in creating and navigating tension, we open ourselves up to profound growth and self-discovery. Give yourself a moment to reflect on the assumptions that may constrain you and embrace the tension that arises when challenging them. Embrace the tightrope of life, knowing that with each step, you are one step closer to becoming the best version of yourself so you can empower others to do the same.