As federal prison consultants and former federal prisoners, our team has seen a lot of unexpected things. But one of the most bizarre phenomena I observed in federal prison was the emotional conflict many prisoners grapple with during our time there. Their strange relationship with time, the federal prison camp environment, and the anticipation of freedom is a strange paradox that is both intriguing and perplexing.
A common complaint among federal prisoners is boredom. For many, the days are too long, filled with the same routines, faces, and surroundings. It drives some mad-this partly explains why some prisoners prefer higher security prisons. As expressed routinely through our work, many prisoners lament the monotony, wishing the time away. They yearn for the day their sentence ends, dreaming about freedom after prison. I will admit I suffered from this yearning the most when I had about six weeks left to serve. I wasn’t productive at the end of my term.
In prison, I witnessed an interesting irony. Despite the constant complaints, as the end of their term nears, many prisoners reveal a surprising sentiment: they will miss certain aspects of federal prison life.
The commotion of the prison, little responsibility, and the simple routine that orders their days – these elements of prison life, once the cause of their frustration, become strangely comforting in the stillness of their cubicle. They find a bizarre sense of tranquility they fear they might not find on the outside.
This paradox is not easy to comprehend. How can someone detest their current circumstances yet fear the freedom they desperately longed for? It’s a testament to human beings’ strange adaptability and proves prison is a warped, foreign world. The very environment they despised becomes an integral part of their identity, their routine, and their life.
At White Collar Advice, we advise clients to maximize their time in federal prison.
As I expressed in a recently filmed short video, the end is coming. Are you ready? It’s essential to utilize this time for self-improvement, learning, and for personal growth. Yes, prison life can be hard, and, for some, it’s monotonous, but it also provides an opportunity to reflect, change, and prepare for a better life post-prison.
The complexity of these emotions underscores the importance of preparing mentally for the prison experience. Understanding this paradox can help future prisoners brace themselves for the emotional roller coaster of incarceration.
Ultimately, federal prison is a world of its own, harboring its strange realities. Too many prisoners waste away the days, yet when the end is near, some find themselves grappling with the impending change. It’s a paradox I still struggle to understand, but it remains one of the most fascinating aspects of the prison experience.
If you or someone you know is facing the challenges of federal prison, don’t face them alone. Our team at White Collar Advice is here to provide the guidance and support you need. We have the expertise and understanding to help you navigate the intricate maze of emotions and maximize your time in federal prison. Call us at 704-654-1604 to get started.
Justin Paperny
