Modern Athlete Magazine Issue 170 July 2024 | Page 67

Mental Wellness

Rethink Compromise By Glen Ross

Ask yourself this question : Are you trading authenticity for harmony ? It may be time for you to rethink compromise versus consideration .

Compromise is often hailed as a noble concept - the meeting point of disagreements , a symbol of balance . But what if we ’ ve been seeing it wrong ? What if the mantra for a fulfilling life lies not in compromise , but in consideration ? This innovative approach to personal development focuses on nurturing your mental wellbeing and enhancing brain health by living a life of consideration , not compromise .

To understand this groundbreaking perspective , we must first redefine what compromise and consideration mean . At its core , compromise implies settling . It ’ s an act of surrender , giving up a part of your truth , your desire , your ideal scenario . Yet , society often paints this self-sacrifice as a virtue , a necessary attribute for maintaining harmony . But , what if this very act of giving away bits of our truth is chipping away at our potential for happiness and self-realisation ?
In contrast , consideration calls for understanding , empathy , and respect for ourselves and others ’ views , without surrendering our own . It ’ s a conscious commitment to honouring every individual ’ s truth , including our own , as we navigate the journey of life .
True to Yourself
Choosing consideration over compromise isn ’ t about becoming self-centred or stubborn . It ’ s about remaining true to yourself , while acknowledging the validity of others ’ experiences . It is the act of understanding and respecting diverse perspectives without relinquishing your own .

Practically Speaking

I find mental models and analogies helpful when explaining new and challenging ideas , like compromise vs consideration .
Option 1 : Think of life as a road trip . Living a life of compromise is like always giving up the driver ’ s seat and never deciding the destination . You go wherever others wish , sometimes enjoying the ride , often not . Living a life of consideration is like taking turns in driving and deciding destinations together . You ’ re not always in control , but your preferences are respected and factored into the journey .
Option 2 : Life can be compared to an orchestra . Compromise is like playing an instrument that you ’ re not particularly fond of , just because the orchestra needs it , which could lead to an uninspired performance . In contrast , consideration is like harmonising everyone ’ s preferred instrument , creating a symphony where everyone contributes their best . You don ’ t have to give up what you love ; instead you find a way to make it fit with the others .
The beauty of this shift in perspective lies in its power to transform relationships . Compromise often leaves a residue of dissatisfaction , an echo of what could have been . But consideration ? It gives way to deeper connections , built on the foundation of mutual respect and understanding .
What ’ s more , consideration over compromise can significantly impact our brain health and mental wellbeing . Living in a state of compromise triggers stress , an infamous culprit for numerous mental and physiological health problems . A life of constant compromise is a life lived in cognitive dissonance , a mental tug-of-war that saps our mental energy and breeds unhappiness .
A Happier You
Conversely , living a life of consideration brings peace , satisfaction and mental balance . It nurtures emotional intelligence , an integral component of healthy brainfunctioning . Consideration stimulates empathy and understanding , skills linked to the emotional and social wellbeing of an individual . Plus , the psychological comfort that comes from living authentically can significantly reduce stress levels , promoting overall brain health .
Of course , it ’ s essential to note that choosing consideration over compromise is not a one-size-fits-all solution . Like any aspect of personal development , it requires practice and , ironically , a bit of compromise . It ’ s about finding the right balance where our truth and the truths of others can coexist harmoniously .
Finally , understand that this shift towards consideration isn ’ t an overnight change . It ’ s a journey of self-discovery , of unlearning and relearning . It will be difficult , but the rewards – deeper relationships , improved mental wellbeing , and a truly authentic life – are worth the effort .
Time to Grow
As we embrace a life of consideration , we open ourselves to a world of growth and transformation . We become aware of our inherent value and the value of others , leading to a rich life defined not by what we ’ ve given up , but by what we ’ ve understood and respected .
So , let ’ s reconsider compromise , choose consideration , and see how this transformative approach can uplift our life , and the lives of those around us . Because life is too short for compromise when the power of consideration can pave the way for a journey full of understanding , respect and authenticity . Let ’ s choose a life of consideration , NOT compromise .
Glen Ross is a dedicated Brain Health Coach , Therapist , and Mental Health Ambassador . With a passion for empowering individuals , he guides you on a transformative journey towards improved wellbeing and personal growth , helps you to optimise brain health , enhance mental resilience , overcome challenges and unlock your full potential . More at www . glenross . co .
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