We’ve all experienced it – driving home, pulling into the driveway, and realizing we can’t recall the journey. Or entering a room with a specific purpose in mind, only to forget why we went there. This phenomenon is known as autopilot, where we make unconscious, automatic decisions without awareness, a behavior common to all of us.
To clarify, autopilot is generally harmless. With over 50,000 daily thoughts and around 35,000 decisions stemming from those thoughts, it’s clear that we rely on autopilot to conserve energy. Imagine the mental strain if we had to consciously deliberate every action taken throughout the day. However, problems arise when our minds become entrenched in these automatic, unconscious patterns of thought. This is when we should start monitoring the impact of our unconscious decisions.
In today’s world, many people find themselves operating on autopilot rather than making conscious decisions due to the prevailing environment. But fret not, there are signs that can alert you to the possibility of living life passively, rather than by your own volition. If any of these indicators resonate with you, it might be time to introduce some changes.
Here are the clues:
1. You anticipate the upcoming day with a sense of dread.
2. You perceive a lack of excitement or anticipation in your life.
3. Your daily schedule follows a predictable pattern.
4. You could recount your activities from a month ago because they mirror what you do today.
5. You engage in activities without conscious thought, devoid of the underlying reasons. Mindless eating is also a common occurrence, like mindlessly consuming a bag of chips without awareness.
6. You find it challenging to detach from your phone.
7. You mindlessly scroll through emails and social media, disconnecting from those around you in the same physical space.
8. You struggle with memory retention.
9. Letting go seems difficult for you.
10. You gravitate towards familiarity rather than what benefits you. This includes maintaining relationships or habits that no longer serve your well-being.
11. You lack significant progress in achieving your goals, neglecting to actively work towards the life you desire.
12. Your default response is often “yes” without evaluating the consequences or benefits thoroughly.
13. Time seems to slip away with little to show for it, leading to feelings of guilt over unaccomplished tasks.
14. You are constantly busy and distracted, avoiding moments of reflection or processing thoughts.
15. You tend to prioritize pleasing others over your own needs and desires.
Is it possible for us to break free from autopilot mode? Definitely!
Keep in mind:
Autopilot operates quickly, unconsciously, and automatically. Transitioning into deliberate and mindful thinking slows us down. We become aware of our decisions and make a purposeful effort. To unravel, disentangle, and innovate in our choices, we must first focus on our routines. What adjustments can you make? How can you shift your attention to be more intentional?
Start by examining your life purpose and using it as a guide to take inspired action. Ask yourself, “Am I living according to my purpose, or am I evading it by relying on autopilot? Train yourself to pause and contemplate. Delve deep and determine your motivation. Why are you here? What do you desire from this life? What drives your relationships and career choices? Here’s a valuable tip to break free from autopilot! Allocate specific zones in your calendar. Reserve time each day to focus on different zones. For instance, every morning from 4:30 to 6 a.m., I dedicate my calendar to journaling and meditation. I use various colors in my calendar to easily identify the scheduled zone. While my calendar is flexible and subject to change, I allow each day to unfold as needed.
Establish clear boundaries in your communication. Make room for yourself. Release the pressure to please everyone at the cost of your own happiness. You deserve space. Reflect on the opportunities that come your way. Are you willing to invest your time, money, expertise, etc., in the cause? By eliminating the automatic “yes,” you break away from living on autopilot.
Set aside your phone. The individuals physically present before you are more significant than those beyond the screen. If you envision a better life for yourself, start by being present in your own life.
Once you regain control of your thoughts, become intentional, and clarify your desires, you will embark on a happier, healthier, and more mindful journey. There’s nothing more rewarding! Are you prepared to shift from autopilot to choice?
You might be interested in exploring the concept of decision-making, which delves into how we make choices and the processes involved. Speaking of consciousness, understanding consciousness can also provide insights into the difference between automatic responses and intentional choices. If you’re curious about habits and their impact on your life, check out the entry on habits, as breaking unhelpful ones can significantly enhance your overall well-being. These topics can deepen your understanding of shifting from autopilot to more mindful decision-making.
