My first day in federal prison included the basics:
Processing
Observing the layout of the camp
Eating in the chow hall
Standing for count
You know the basics!
Yet, it was during a seemingly mundane walk around the camp’s dirt track that I encountered one of the most significant challenges—not the threat of violence but the pervasive danger of a victim mentality.
The Hidden Danger in Victim Mentality
After the 4pm standing count, I walked the track with a prisoner serving a six-year sentence for Medicare fraud. Despite pleading guilty, he cast himself as the victim, blaming his lawyer and Judge for his predicament. It was a perspective I realized could lead to a figurative life sentence long after one’s actual sentence ended. This walk underscored a crucial realization: the most dangerous aspect of a federal prison camp isn’t the fear of violence but the mental traps one can fall into. Acknowledging my responsibility for being in that situation was pivotal. I understood I needed to steer clear of those who wallowed in self-pity and blame to thrive.
Choosing a Different Path In Federal Prison
This understanding led me to a decisive approach: avoiding prisoners who perpetuated a victim mentality. It was essential to my progress and mental well-being. As expressed in my daily prison blog and Lessons From Prison, I focused on personal growth and future success by distancing myself from negativity and complaints. The federal prison camp, with all its potential for despair, also offered opportunities for reflection and improvement if one chose to see them.
Inspiring Through Action
My strategy extended beyond personal avoidance of negative influences; I sought to be an example for others, including my family. Demonstrating resilience and accountability, I created daily content and engaged in healthy activities. It was about showing progress through action rather than succumbing to the ease of complaints.
A Call to Embrace Responsibility
The lesson from my first day in the federal prison camp is clear: embracing responsibility for one’s actions and circumstances is essential to having a productive experience.
In the federal prison camp and beyond, refusing to play the victim card paves the way for genuine progress and the ability to inspire those around us. It’s about owning our stories, learning from them, and preparing for success after prison (call Alec at 704-654-1604 to enroll in our Preparing For Success After Prison Course). You can also schedule a call with us here.
Discussion Question:
How can you recognize and resist the temptation to adopt a victim mentality in a federal prison camp, and what specific actions can you take to cultivate a mindset focused on personal accountability and self-improvement?
Justin Paperny
