How you relate to the issue IS the issue.
The teachers from my Masters program frequently shared these words of wisdom in class.
They served as a reminder that each of us is responsible for how we relate to our issues.
It’s derived from the notion that there are only two ways that you can relate to the people, places and things in your external world….
From the position of:
1) The Victim
OR
2) The Empowered One
If you stop and think about it, there’s probably a 100% chance that you’re going to run into issues this week….
When issues arise, you always have a choice on how you respond.
The statement, “How you relate to the issue is the issue” suggests that it’s your relationship to that particular issue that ultimately becomes the issue.
Especially when you’re relating to the issue from the position of the victim!
The victim says, “look what the world is doing to me.” – The victim points the finger at others….
You’ve made me angry.
You’ve embarrassed me.
You’ve been dishonest.
If you choose the position of the victim, you’re blaming someone else for your emotional responses, and essentially, YOU become the issue! Yes, YOU!
If you choose the position of The Empowered One, the way you relate to your external issues looks very different.
The Empowered One says, “Look how I’m choosing to respond to the outside world” and takes claim on how you’re feeling versus blaming someone else for your emotions.
I am feeling angry.
I feel embarrassed.
I feel deceived.
Each of these statements reflects a person who is taking ownership for how he/she feels.
AND…..You have an opportunity to do the same thing.
It’s not always easy to slow down and take ownership for your emotions; however, when you choose to do so, you become a non-issue, and in this case, this is a very good thing.
