How to Get to the Root of Your Issues
Understand the difference between practical problems and deeper emotional struggles
Not all problems are created equal. Some can be solved with logic, others require deeper exploration.
Two Types of Problems: Rational vs. Subconscious
The first type of problem is rational. These are the surface-level issues that can be solved with conscious, practical solutions—like fixing a leaky faucet or using a calendar to better manage your time. They’re straightforward and respond well to action.
The second type is more complex. These are subconscious issues—mental and emotional struggles that aren’t easily solved by logic. Things like anxiety, depression, shame, or a persistent feeling of unease when “nothing’s really wrong.” These problems are often rooted in our past, buried in patterns we picked up without realizing.
Why Subconscious Problems Stick Around
When it comes to anxiety, for example, the root cause may be early trauma—such as mistreatment by caregivers or a chaotic upbringing. These experiences can form deep beliefs like:
· “The world isn’t safe.”
· “People will always let me down.”
· “I’m not enough.”
Because of these subconscious beliefs, the body stays on high alert. Everything starts to feel like a potential threat, even when it’s not. This constant state of tension can lead to adrenal fatigue, physical health issues, and reliance on distractions like substances, porn, or overworking—just to cope.
How to Go Deeper: A Simple Self-Inquiry Practice
So how do you get beneath the surface? How do you begin uncovering what's really going on?
Start by getting curious. Instead of asking “How do I get rid of this feeling?”, ask “What is this feeling trying to tell me?”
Here’s a practical exercise:
1. Notice the anxiety (or emotion) – Rate it on a scale from 1 to 10. Let’s say it’s an 8.
2. Locate it in the body – Is it in your chest? Your stomach? Your hands? Your shoulders? Pick one area its showing up.
3. Focus on that area and wait – Be still, breathe, and tune into it.
4. Write down any thoughts that come up – They may feel random at first, but they’re often clues.
5. Look for themes – These thoughts might point toward a core belief, unresolved grief, or a past wound.
Try to connect the dots and look for patterns or common themes in these thoughts. This process can begin to uncover the deeper emotional issues that may be affecting you on a daily basis. This is where therapy can help as well—a trained therapist can guide you in interpreting these signals and making connections that may be difficult to see on your own.
Final Thought: The Problem Isn’t Always the Problem
That lingering anxiety, anger, or sadness might not be about what’s happening right now. It could be your body and mind reacting to something deeper that’s still unresolved.
Getting to the root isn’t about overanalyzing everything—it’s about becoming more aware of what’s really going on inside, so you can start healing at the source.