Every morning, I dedicate an hour to reading the teachings of the Vedanta Treatise. I stumbled upon an insight that resonated deeply with me about the importance of healing and personal growth that I wanted to share.
According to Vedanta, there are two primary types of individuals: the passive person and the aggressive person. Read through and take note of who comes to mind.
The Passive Person: Often perceived as a follower, tends to live a life shaped by their environment, family, and culture. They mirror the actions and desires of those around them, rarely questioning their own individuality. This passive existence can hinder personal growth and prevent us from unlocking our true potential. We live on autopilot, rarely exploring our unique gifts, talents, and tastes. Wherever the winds of the masses take us, we unconsciously follow.
*This looks like dressing like each other and obsessively adhering to trends. It also looks like repeating the same mistake of your family and friends without realizing how you got there. Or working jobs you hate but stay in because you think you should be loved, safe, and accepted.
The Aggressive Person: In contrast, the aggressive person is a leader and a thinker. They actively carve out their own path in life, reflecting on their experiences and challenging familial and societal norms. These individuals invest time in developing their own preferences and tastes, which propels them toward success on a unique journey that others often follow.
*This looks like living a lifestyle, unlike your family of origin or childhood friends. It also looks like pursuing the work that you are passionate about despite what others think. You may recognize this type by their rebellious nature, unique style, or the constant changes in their life.
Vedanta goes further categorize these types into “good” and “bad” passive and aggressive individuals. The “good” passive person typically comes from a nurturing background. They strive to work hard and treat others with kindness, not out of choice but conditioning. In contrast, the “bad” passive person grows up in a harmful environment. Going on to cause harm and trauma not because they want to but because it’s the only way they know how. On the flip side, the “bad” aggressive person uses their intellect to manipulate and exploit others for their own gain, whereas the “good” aggressive person emerges as a compassionate leader, committed to personal growth and the well-being of others.
Taking the path of the “good, aggressive person,” we embrace healing and personal fulfillment. Here’s how:
- Self-Discovery: We delve deep within, questioning our beliefs, preferences, and desires. This introspection leads to a profound understanding of our true Self, helping us shed the comfort of complacency and conformity.
- Purposeful Living: We become intentional about our choices, pursuing a path that aligns with our unique gifts and passions. We break free from societal expectations and follow a purpose-driven life.
- Personal Growth: Constantly seeking new ways to learn and flourish, we prioritize personal growth and development. We become thinkers and rebels, actively charting our course toward a fulfilling and meaningful existence.
- Compassionate Leadership: As compassionate leaders, we prioritize not only our personal growth but also the well-being of others. We seek to bring peace and harmony to our communities by living a life benefits all.
Which type of person resonates most with where you are at in this stage of your life? Did a “bad aggressive” person come to mind? What about a “good passive” person? Did you see yourself in all of them?
Are you looking for guidance or support on how to begin the process of becoming a compassionate leader in every area of your life? Join me for my next Integrative Breathwork training where we will meet with our true Self and deal with our subconcious beliefs, fears, and patterns with love and compassion.