The "Victim Reaction" to Adversity: A Barrier to Making Good Things Happen

From the book Gathering Wisdom:

"Sadly, some people get stuck in the victim / blaming mode. They reject all suggestions on how to cope with what has happened. They never take steps to overcome their difficulties even when the crisis is over. The victim reaction to adversity undercuts one's ability to handle unexpected change effectively. Getting stuck in this frame of mind is like tying a rope around your feet and then trying to run a race--it's a major handicap." (p. 51)

I know many people like this. It is a sad thing to watch, because these types of issues are very private in nature, and not many feel comfortable enough to open up even to the ones they love for fear of hurting the other person. The problem with this, is that staying silent is like leaving the pressure cooker going to the point where it creates unrest and chaos in ones life.

I have learned that the key to overcoming resistance to change is becoming aware of the resistance first, and then figuring out the steps to change it for the better. It will not happen by itself, but it does happen over time, and it will take persistence and determination to challenge and overcome the old emotional scars from the past. We either challenge them and grow, or we don't and become a slave to our weaknesses.

We can choose to be powerful, or powerless. I choose to be powerful--not in a mean intimidating way--but in a way that allows for making good things happen in life.