Lesson 2 of the Toltecs, Don’t Take Anything Personally:
“Nothing others do is because of you. What others say and do is a projection of their own reality, their own dream. When you are immune to the opinions and actions of others, you won’t be the victim of needless suffering.”
Get Out of Your Head
We have a lot going on upstairs (well, at least I assume so if you found my blog) and that sometimes lead to overthinking. A reaction we weren’t expecting from the cashier, a rejection from a girl/guy or employer, or an argument we have with loved ones. People will say things that come out of nowhere, or are completely out-of-line with your mind. Which leads to countless replays of the experience and trying to comprehend their meaning.
Stop. Get out of your head. You can’t do anything to change the words someone directed at you. But you can change you. You are the founder of your future, the pursuer of your passions, and the director of your desires. Even if someone says something unsettling, don’t take it personally. Instead use it as a chip on your shoulder. Make the words your enemy to propel you forward.
“Phil, That’s Easier Said Than Done”
I know what you’re thinking. “That’s easier said than done.” It is, you’re right, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try. I think a lot, I get caught in my head a lot, but somehow I find a way out. I slay my demons, bury them, and move forward. Stressing about what someone else thinks of me does the opposite of what I want to accomplish. If I listen to them then I become what they think I am. Instead, I don’t take it personally, move forward, and continue kicking butt.
My strategy to getting through drawbacks, or other’s projections of me, is a few steps. First, I keep my composure. Yes, they might’ve said something that infuriated me, or put me down, but I don’t retaliate. The first lesson of the Toltecs is “Be Impeccable with your Word: Use the power of your Word in the direction of truth and love.” After keeping my composure I then think what they actually meant. I dissect their words, and look for their perception. Third, I try to re-frame their words to what they meant according to my dreams. And last I use it as motivation. I vow to get better because of it.
Steps to Not Take Anything Personally
- Keep your composure (Toltec Lesson 1)
- Dissect their words
- Re-word their words to align with your dream
- Use their words as motivation
Move Forward
Always moving forward is the only solution to personal attacks or letdowns. No matter what happens in your daily life, pouting about the past won’t improve the future. You have to take each circumstance to heart and live life the way you want to live. Forget other people’s problems with you and focus on your strengths and capabilities.