Decision making<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n We think we know (consciously) what we want \u2014 before and after making (conscious) decisions about the same.<\/p>\n\n\n\n We don\u2019t.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Let\u2019s take what happens in three takes:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Moreover, since the decision is taken before we become consciously aware of it, it can also drive conscious awareness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Which it does.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What consciousness does<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n \u2018Consciousness\u2019 is the degree to which decisions are made with conceptual flavor and in self-reference.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Therefore, it can be seen as a feature of subconceptual processing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n To some degree, we can pragmatically work with it as if it were something separate. Yet, please take it with good measure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Subconceptual drives conceptual<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Without this insight, people don\u2019t understand themselves nor each other.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This (lack of insight) is not just a minor issue. It carries hugely damaging consequences. As a result, people continually misunderstand and make the wrong decisions \u2014 even ones that they don\u2019t like by far.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Let the subconceptual reign.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n This doesn\u2019t mean chaos \u2014 on the contrary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The trick is to see through it: \u2018You\u2019 is not the conscious part of yourself. It\u2019s the total \u2018you,\u2019 the total self that is in action each time you mention or think of \u2018you.\u2019 This way, working with \u2018total you\u2019 doesn\u2019t diminish any control. It just changes what it is to have control, to be in control of yourself. It changes your you-idea, not your you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Then again, it changes how you can be you \u2014 in short, how you can \u2018be.\u2019<\/p>\n\n\n\n Embracing your total self for personal growth<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Recognizing the role of the subconceptual in your decisions invites you to engage more deeply with your inner self. This fosters a Compassionate relationship with yourself, enhancing your ability to align your choices with your core values and needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It encourages an authentic growth process that integrates your conceptual understanding with the wisdom of your subconceptual experiences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Practical applications<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n By becoming aware of the subconceptual influences in everyday life, you can better manage emotions and make decisions that truly resonate with who you are. For example, understanding these dynamics can help navigate complex emotional landscapes at work or in relationships, leading to choices that are rational and fulfilling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It makes you more prone to be rational and value depth, both at the same time and integrated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It makes you more prone to Compassion.<\/p>\n