Let Your Inner Baby Guide You to Greater Happiness and Learning

Photo Credit: Amanda Mills

Innovative research from Johns Hopkins University finds that infants have innate knowledge about the world and that knowledge creates expectations about how objects should behave. 

One surprising finding from this research is that when babies' expectations are defied, they are far more likely to learn. Simply stated, babies learn best when their expectations are defied.

In contrast to a baby's natural response of being curious and attentive to objects and situations that defy expectations, most adults finding themselves in similar situations are triggered toward negative emotional reactions such as anger, frustration, or overwhelm. In the presence of these negative emotions and reactions, our ability to explore and learn is severely restricted or eliminated totally.

Choosing a Different Response:

I suggest we choose a different response when objects, people, or situations don't behave as we expect them to. Choose to follow the ancient wisdom of Lao Tzu when he said,

"Life is a series of natural and spontaneous changes. Don't resist them - that only creates sorrow. Let reality be reality. Let things flow naturally forward in whatever way they like."

Rather than resisting what is, become curious. Let the spirit of lightness and wonder replace frustration. You'll experience far more happiness and learning will occur spontaneously because you are in alignment with the natural order of life.

To learn more about this innovative research that highlights the role novelty and expectation plays in a baby's learning, watch this YouTube video from John Hopkins University:

Steve

Stephen Carter Stress Solutions, LLC p:804-677-6772 | e:CarterMethod@gmail.com | w:http://www.EFT-MD.com

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Important Note: This and all other postings to this blog are for informational purposes only. This and all other posts are not intended to diagnose, treat, or otherwise recommend any treatment for any medical or psychological condition. Anyone using any of the information contained in this or any other posting on this website does so at his or her own risk. You are urged to seek competent medical consultations with appropriate licensed medical professionals for any and all medical, psychological, or physical conditions.

Resource References:

Newswire Release: http://www.newswise.com/articles/view/632060/?sc=dwhn

Abstract of article published in the journal, "Science": http://www.sciencemag.org/content/348/6230/91.abstract

Chronic Worry and a Quiet Mind

Chronic worry is a huge contributor to elevated stress. In the Theatre of Mind, we can become transfixed with one imaginary disaster movie after another. 

"Life isn't safe", our thinking goes. "If I worry enough about this situation and all of the terrible possibilities, then the answers for every painful iteration of possibilities will somehow appear."

In truth, however, the opposite is true. Regardless of how difficult a situation appears, worry will never solve it. We are far better able to deal with adversity with a clear, calm mind.

In correspondence with a client today about experiencing chronic worry, part of my message included the commentary,

"When we stay rooted in the 'Now' - this moment - there is little sense of time, past or future. In reality, 'Now' is all we have. Past and future are constructs of the mind. Resting in the present moment brings peace; nothing else can."

Chronic worry can't penetrate a quiet mind. When the mind is quiet, the answers emerge.

I'm reminded of Lao Tzu's guidance:

For tips on quieting the mind and opening your consciousness to the deep 
wisdom waiting within, send us an email by clicking HERE.

Blessings,

Steve

Stephen Carter CEO, Stress Solutions, LLC p:804-677-6772 | e:CarterMethod@gmail.com | w:http://www.EFT-MD.com

Important Note: This and all other postings to this blog are for informational purposes only. This and all other posts are not intended to diagnose, treat, or otherwise recommend any treatment for any medical or psychological condition. Anyone using any of the information contained in this or any other posting on this website does so at his or her own risk. You are urged to seek competent medical consultations with appropriate licenced medical professionals for any and all medical or physical conditions.