Addiction involves deriving pleasure from activity in a repetitive mode. Unlike addiction, obsession is somewhat of an overwhelming feeling. Addiction towards a particular thing is what you consume, whereas an obsession consumes you and your ability to think. Chances are high that you can get rid of an addiction; shedding an obsession needs more willpower. It is uncontrollable, irresistible and at most times may result in unpleasant consequences, if left untreated.
We do not realize the pros and cons of our deeds when under the spell of an obsession. It creates a blockage to our thinking ability and decision-making power. Hence an addiction to obsession could turn out to be ugly. Self-analysis of one’s own action is necessary from time to time. A little realization of your own actions is necessary. A subconscious realization that we are getting carried away or losing self-control should be immediately put into place.
Sometimes an obsession is towards a particular feeling, not with the actual person/place/thing.
Being in love is a wonderful feeling. We don’t realize it is that feeling ( a feeling of being loved) towards which are obsessed and not the person. At most times we confuse the fascination for that wonderful feeling with that of an actual person.
The feeling of being loved or being in love gives us immense happiness, irrespective of the person involved. Hence, it is the feeling that we are obsessed with, and not the actual person.
When we get habitual to a particular lifestyle, it is the feeling of that comfort that keeps us glued, irrespective of the materials in use.
Being obsessed with something for a long duration has the same effect on the brain as when under the influence of a drug. We don’t realize that the feelings we would have for someone have already vanished; what remains is our obsession (obsession with the feeling and not the actual thing) which gives us an impression that we are still in love with the same person. Here, it becomes very important to keep a check on ourselves in order to avoid taking decisions that carry no meaning in our life. Obsession is all about achieving a particular goal at any cost without thinking about whether it still holds value or not.
Obsession makes us blind. We tend to ignore and believe what we see. The truth lies right in front of us but we refuse to change our mindset. It is only when we get what we had wished for, we see the other side and the opportunities we missed. Life is all about the next adventure. Change with time. Do not hold on to unnecessary things which once had meaning in your life.
Overcoming obsession
Without going into much detail, there are two factors about which I would like to share my thoughts that can help in overcoming obsession:
-Maintain a detailed journal regarding your everyday behavior with the people around you. Read it with an unbiased mindset, without letting distractions come in between. Use some time to think and analyze your actions. The exercise may serve as a mirror.
-It is advisable to talk to a trusted friend, someone who can listen and advise you without any judgments. A genuine opinion and advice could help you break the spell of obsession. Avoid spending time alone when your thoughts go largely out of control.
-Start drifting your thoughts to a hobby or an activity that you enjoy doing the most. Distracting yourself and keeping busy with the activity will automatically give you a break from the monotonous thought process.
Above all, acceptance is the key. Accepting the fact that our thoughts regarding a particular thing are going out of control is the first step towards helping yourself getting rid of the obsession.
Stay connected,
Nikita Kohli
Thank you readers.
Well said