Whenever we are strongly attached to something and we keep doing that thing, even though we have decided we won’t do it, frequently we ask ourselves the judgemental and condemning question: “Why did I do it?” Such a question only puts us on the defensive and doesn’t really help us find out the actual reason. Instead, we can change the question that we ask ourselves: “What does this thing do for me?” or “What need is this thing fulfilling for me?” If we can understand that need and address that need in a healthier way, then not only can we get a greater self-understanding, but we can also move towards inner freedom. This is the approach recommended in Bhagavad-gita (6.5) where it states “Elevate oneself with oneself.”

Watch this content at: Change the question we ask ourselves

***

06.05 One must deliver himself with the help of his mind, and not degrade himself. The mind is the friend of the conditioned soul, and his enemy as well.