Life is meant to be enjoyed not merely endured. However, I keep slipping back into survival mode because I’m chained to negativity. Everyone has a negativity bias. It’s an evolutionary necessity. The automatic reactivity of the brain is meant to keep us safe from physical dangers, most of which no longer exist. Positive engagement requires making a choice: to slow down, to breathe, to respond thoughtfully instead of reactively. Once we become aware of the ways in which our brains have become conditioned to protect us, then we’re able to consciously override and reconfigure those neurological connections. My brain was wired to believe that it’s not safe for me to speak up for myself. My body still responds with panic whenever defending myself is required. I have to be very intentional to make myself speak up if someone has violated one of my boundaries or has breached my personal space. It’s difficult to do, but the more I practice, the easier it gets. Practicing this behavior is one way for me to show love for myself.