02/22/2026
“Observe it, don’t absorb it.” reminds us that while we can’t control the outer world, we can choose not to let it colonize our inner one. By staying the steady observer, you protect your peace, maintain perspective, and move through life with greater freedom and intention.
To stay the steady observer, try the mindfulness technique, (straight from ACT & emotional boundary work) it protects your peace, cuts reactivity, and lets you respond with intention instead of impulse.
The process called cognitive defusion encourages viewing thoughts, emotions, and external triggers as passing mental events rather than truths that define or control you. Instead of fusing with (or “absorbing”) them—where they trigger automatic reactions like rumination, defensiveness, or emotional flooding—you learn to observe them with detachment. This creates psychological space, allowing clearer responses aligned with your values rather than reactive impulses.
With this technique, you notice what arises in the outer world (a conflict, rejection, or negativity) as if watching clouds pass or leaves float down a stream. You acknowledge its presence—“There’s anger arising from that comment” or “I notice this situation feels chaotic”—but refrain from internalizing it as a reflection of your worth, identity, or permanent state.
You control what enters your inner world. 💪
serenitynow MentalHealthMatters
