Action Quote by Pema Chodron
“When you refrain from habitual thoughts and behavior, the uncomfortable feelings will still be there. They don’t magically disappear. Over the years, I’ve come to call resting with the discomfort “the detox period,” because when you don’t act on your habitual patterns, it’s like giving up an addiction. You’re left with the feelings you were trying to escape. The practice is to make a wholehearted relationship with that”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Pema Chodron on meditation, 2020
Avoiding habitual thoughts leaves discomfort unchanged; confronting it directly leads to growth, like a detox from addiction.
In simple terms: Facing discomfort without distraction helps heal.
Key Takeaway
Embrace feelings instead of escaping them.
Themes
mindfulness
discomfort
habit
detox
growth
Mood
calm
reflective
Type
spiritual
self-help
When to use this quote
- meditation sessions
- therapy
- stress management
- personal development
Key Concepts
acceptance
psychology
spiritual practice
Questions to Reflect On
- What discomfort are you avoiding?
- How can you sit with it compassionately?
A Different Perspective
Some may find sustained discomfort overwhelming without support.
