Author and philosopher Ilchi Lee believes that meditation exercises can assist people in their personal growth journeys, as the practice has been shown to strengthen cognition and possibly help individuals gain control over their subconscious.
Researchers at the University of Alberta, Duke University and Cornell University conducted a study into the subconscious and its role in assisting individuals in achieving their goals.
They found that the subconscious reacts favorably to items that help individuals reach short-term goals. For instance, if a person is hungry, they will unintentionally react to food, and not as much to things like water or soda.
When it comes to long-term goals, the researchers observed some differences. When a person achieves success, the mind will continue to react favorably to actions or objects that helped them in their journey, even after the ultimate goal has been reached.
However, in cases of failed attempts, the subconscious takes more of a neutral stance on whatever led to the shortcoming.
"You don't hate the objects related to the goal because that goal is very important to you in the long run," said lead researcher Sarah Moore. "Your unconscious is telling you 'now is not the time to pursue the goal. You just failed, let's leave it alone for a while. We're not going to pursue these objects in the environment; we're going to switch to some other goal.'"
Results of this study emphasize the power that the brain has in helping individuals attain their goals, whether they be running a marathon or gaining enlightenment.
Additionally, by using meditation techniques, it may be possible for people to sharpen their subconscious, and possibly help it play a more integral, targeted role in success.
