The Lazy Yogi

yukey asked: I've realized about myself that, in many everyday situations, I stop myself from saying what I think. It's like there is a second voice in my head that always comes up with a counterargument to whatever comment or idea I was about to express. As a result, many people in my life know me as quiet, even strangely so. This has been with me my entire life and although I like to think that I've grown and improved somewhat, there is still improvement to be made. Do you have any advice?

This isn’t a situation unique to you. Many people who are very in their heads often censor themselves continuously. This is because you have become a very stern judge of yourself. 

Contrary to what you might feel, however, the solution isn’t simply speaking what’s on your mind whenever you want. 

To blurt out whatever you are thinking is too much; that may be called an over-active throat chakra. But to constantly censor yourself is too little; that may be called a blocked throat chakra. 

The thing to keep in mind is that self-expression is not about being right or wrong. Your mind is judging the things you are thinking that you would like to say. The more you judge, the more those things become stale. In this world, there is a counter-argument for everything. But if that is what you focus on, then all your mind becomes is a battlefield for arguments. 

What is more important is to be sincere. Express yourself freely. But once you have expressed yourself, be open to changing your mind whenever necessary. If there is a counter-argument, let it occur in the moment rather than your head. 

Also, when you can comfortably dwell in both mental and physical silence, communication becomes very simple and easy. You are silent. When something strikes you, you can either share it or not. Then you return to mindful and present silence. 

People generally consider silence to be empty and perhaps it is. But silence is also like marble: anything can be carved from it. All conversation, all insight, all existence is only possible because of silence. 

Namaste :) I hope this helped.