I have to resist the urge to stop people midsentence every time I hear them say that something “made” them react a certain way.
Example: “You made me mad when you…” “He made me yell at him cuz he yelled at me first.”
Ya’ll with me? The reality is this, no one can MAKE you do anything.
I have heard this sentiment expressed by my therapist and professors innumerable times since I’ve been on this counseling journey.
As a result, I find myself taking more responsibility for my decisions. No one makes me do or feel anything. Everything I say, do and/or feel is a direct result of a choice I have made.
And I’ll be honest and say that I’m a better person because of this new awareness. When I could blame my reactions on others, it was easier to excuse it. Now that I’ve decided to take ownership of my choices, I tend to make better ones.
It has been hard because not going with my first mind leaves me feeling like I lost, but then I realize what I actually won. I won my life. I am in total control of me. It feels good to not be anybody’s puppet.
Claricha Explains It All 