APATHY

Apathy is characterized by feeling poor in everything. We are too tired or depressed to do anything about our life. If people try to cheer us up, we'll mostly turn them down and isolate ourselves because any form of action feels overwhelming. It's like having a chronic disease that we're condemned to live with for the rest of our life.

Log

50 out of 1000

Life view

Think of apathy as if nothing matters and the world is grey. Tomorrow looks like this day. There is nothing new under the sun. No need to strive for anything nor any will to avoid anything. Everything is mellow, and it's impossible to get anywhere. It's like living in poverty, both emotionally and physically.

Emotions

Hopelessness, despair, depression, lifeless, Indifference

God/higher power-View

We feel condemned by God/higher power to a life that is not meant to go anywhere.

Process

We are giving up the reins of our life. We are abdicating from all the responsibility where it is heading. Life is meant to be this mellow, and who are we to do anything about it.

Primary drive

What is the point? I can't do it. Why should I want to do anything? This is too much.

Rate of happiness

5%

Mode

Nothing matters. Leave us alone. Why bother.

How it feels

Apathy is characterized by feeling poor in everything. We are too tired or depressed to do anything about our life. If people try to cheer us up, we'll mostly turn them down and isolate ourselves because any form of action feels overwhelming. It's like having a chronic disease that we're condemned to live with for the rest of our life.

Actions

We don't take any action. And if we would, it wouldn't mean anything because the tiny amount of life force we possess quickly slips away due to the perpetual depression. It's staring blankly into a ceiling and waiting for life to pass by. Most likely, we have people around us that pity our situation.

Warning

It's easy for us to fall back down to guilt by turning the aggression of our situation against ourselves.

Good news

Apathy is a feeling even though the body feels numb. However, the more awareness we bring to what we feel, the easier it gets to see through the mellow grey smog that colors our world.

Origins of Apathy

Apathy often originates from prolonged periods of adversity, failure, or traumatic events. According to Dr. Hawkins, chronic exposure to negative stimuli without the means or knowledge to cope can lead one to develop a protective shield of indifference, numbing themselves to further hurt.

Recognizing the Triggers

Apathy can be triggered by seemingly mundane events, reminders of past failures, or even physical illness. Dr. Hawkins suggested paying attention to patterns. For instance, when faced with a new challenge, does the thought of past failures paralyze you? Or does a specific season or date make you feel more desolate than others? Recognizing these triggers helps in addressing them consciously.

Apathy and Its Impact on Health

Dr. Hawkins pointed out that while apathy acts as a defense mechanism, it has a detrimental effect on one's overall health. The lack of enthusiasm and motivation can lead to neglect of physical health, poor diet, and lack of exercise. Furthermore, apathy can strain relationships, leading to social isolation, which can further worsen mental health. The persistent feeling of hopelessness can even lead to chronic illnesses.

MovingBeyond Apathy

To transcend apathy, Dr. Hawkins provided several suggestions:

1. Seek Support:

Engaging in therapy or counseling can help one understand and address the root causes of their apathy. Group therapies can be particularly helpful, as they allow individuals to see that they are not alone in their feelings.

2. Engage in Physical Activity:

Even a simple walk outside can help. Physical activity releases endorphins, which act as natural painkillers and mood elevators.

3. Set Small Goals:

Rather than focusing on large, overwhelming tasks, setting achievable, small goals can give a sense of purpose and accomplishment 

4. Spiritual Practices:

Dr. Hawkins often emphasized the role of spiritual practices, such as meditation, in reconnecting with oneself and finding purpose.

5. Avoid Isolation:

Engaging with loved ones or participating in community activities can help in feeling more connected and less indifferent.

6. Affirmations:

Positive affirmations can help shift the mindset from one of hopelessness to hope.

By integrating these insights from Dr. Hawkins, one can develop a broader understanding of apathy, its implications, and the methods to move beyond this stifling state of being.