Let’s Define and Compare…
Mindfulness is focused, non-judgmental, intentional awareness of what is happening in the present moment.
Addiction is obsessive thinking and compulsive behavior, which we continue to repeat, despite negative consequences.
| Mindfulness | Addiction |
| Being in the present | Getting away from the present |
| Stillness | Busyness |
| Non-reactive | Reactive |
| Checking in | Checking out |
| Focused | Non-focused |
| Curious | Indifferent |
| Non-judgmental | Judgmental |
| Noticing thoughts | Believing thoughts |
| Allowing emotions | Rejecting emotions |
| Self-compassion | Self-criticism |
| Allowing | Denying |
| Honesty | Dishonesty |
| Kindness | Harshness |
| Engaged | Detached |
| Health | Disease |
| Creative and spontaneous | Habitual and predictable |
| Relieves suffering | Perpetuates suffering |
| Illuminates reality | Obscures reality |
| Generates freedom | Ensures limitation |
No wonder mindfulness meditation is an evidence-based, highly effective pathway to freedom from addictive behavior!
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Thank you, Eddie:
This plus & minus side (mindfulness vs addiction) is highly useful & lovely in its simplicity.
The addict can relate to much, if not all of these action words. For me, non-reactive vs reactive really hit home.
In my active addiction, I was re-active much of the time to people, places & things. And although sometimes a positive reaction, nonetheless it was an exhaustive way to live.
Non-reaction is like (the way I understand it) is being & living as more of a witness. So much easier!!