Have you ever found yourself seething with anger or feeling deeply upset over a situation, only to realize later that the intensity of your emotions far outweighed the actual circumstances? This is a common experience, and it serves as a powerful reminder: if you’re hot, the problem is you.
At first glance, this might sound like an oversimplification, or even an accusation. But it’s neither. It’s a profound truth that speaks to the heart of our personal growth and evolution. Our experiences in life are deeply intertwined with our consciousness. What one person perceives as a source of happiness, another might see as a reason for sorrow. This divergence in perception highlights a crucial point: life is fundamentally lived from the inside out.
The Lens of Consciousness
Our consciousness acts as the lens through which we interpret and interact with the world. When we encounter a situation that makes us angry, upset, or self-righteous—when we are “hot”—this often points to an inner state that is ready for transformation. These intense emotional reactions are signals from our consciousness, indicating areas where we need to grow and evolve.
For example, consider a situation where a colleague receives praise for a project you worked on together. If you find yourself feeling resentful or indignant, it’s worth examining why this reaction occurred. Is it because you feel unappreciated or overlooked? Or perhaps there’s an underlying insecurity about your own value and contribution? The specific trigger matters less than the inner state it reveals.
Progress Through Transformation
Recognizing that the problem lies within us is not about denying that wrongs and rights exist in the world. Of course, injustices and ethical violations occur, and they deserve to be addressed. However, it is important to observe our own inner state and how we respond to these external events. When we are clear, committed, and powerful within ourselves, the actions of others have less impact on our state of being—and from there we can take the best course of action.
A practical measure of progress in this journey is noticing when old “hot” items no longer trigger us. Perhaps a situation that would have previously sent you into a tailspin of anger or anxiety now elicits only a mild reaction, or none at all. This shift indicates that your consciousness has evolved, and you have transformed an inner state that once caused turmoil.
The Challenge of Self-Reflection
Acknowledging that the problem is within us can be incredibly challenging. It requires a level of self-awareness and humility that isn’t always easy to muster, especially in the heat of the moment. It’s far simpler to blame external circumstances or other people for our distress. However, this approach only perpetuates our suffering and prevents us from achieving true growth.
When we feel triggered, it’s helpful to pause and reflect. Ask yourself: Why am I feeling this way? What does this reaction reveal about my inner state? By taking a moment to delve into these questions, we can begin to uncover the deeper issues at play. This process of introspection allows us to transform our consciousness and, over time, respond to life’s challenges with greater equanimity.
Taking “Control” of Our Inner State
Ultimately, the only thing we can control is our inner state. We cannot dictate the actions of others or the unfolding of external events. However, we can choose how we respond. When we cultivate a clear, committed, and powerful inner state, we become less susceptible to being thrown off balance by what others are doing or how situations unfold.
This doesn’t mean that we become passive or indifferent to the world around us. On the contrary, a strong inner state empowers us to engage more effectively with external challenges. We can address wrongs and advocate for rights with a sense of calm and clarity, rather than reacting out of anger or frustration.
It’s the Journey, Not the Destination
Embracing the journey of evolving our consciousness is a lifelong endeavor. There will always be new challenges and triggers to navigate. However, each step we take towards transforming our inner state brings us closer to a life of greater peace and fulfillment.
So the next time you find yourself feeling “hot,” remember: the problem is you. Not in a punitive sense, but as an invitation to look inward and discover the areas where your consciousness is ready to evolve. You will find that the world around you begins to change as well, reflecting the clarity and power of who you are.