Alva Review-Courier -

Metacognition is described as “thinking about thinking.” Metacognition is the opposite of meditation, which is also a form of mindfulness. Meditation is an attempt to not focus on anything, simply being aware of the moment. Metacognition goes much further, asking oneself “What strategy should I use to approach this problem.” That takes time, time that a 50,000 year old ancestor did not have when spotted by a saber-toothed tiger.

Every one of us from the most privileged to the 99 percent find themselves in situations they would like to change. The Roman philosopher Boethius is quoted: “One has abundant riches but is shamed by his ignoble birth.” You can try to remodel the world to suit your needs, but a better choice is to change your reaction to it.

Responses should be aimed at long term relief. Drugs and alcohol are temporary measures but metacognition offers a better and more permanent solution. The Buddha taught his followers to analyze your problems as if they are happening to someone else. An article in the Wall Street Journal by Arthur C. Brooks and Oprah Winfrey states: “I am not this anger. It will not manage me or make decisions for me.” Boethius, writing from prison in A.D. 524 said: “So true is it that nothing is watched, but thinking makes it so.”

“Thinking about thinking” may well keep you up at night so be mindful of positive memories and recall them, referring to the timeless adage: “measure twice, cut once.”