Is that twinge of fear a stop sign, yield sign, or could it be a green arrow?

(Less than 2 -minute read time)

The pandemic, the protests, the economy, homeschooling, the election, the unknowns – all reasons I’ve heard for not taking action lately.  

Sometimes, these are totally justifiable.  I took a short time off from writing my blog and still believe that was the absolute right thing to do.  

And yet, at some point, even our justifiable reasons can become convenient escapes.  

Our human brain is designed to protect us.  It is constantly scanning for risk.  When it finds a potential risk it alerts us.   

The problem is just about any unknown can be labeled “risk” by our brain.  

That unfamiliar sound you heard while you happened to be alone?  Our brains will make into an armed robber when really it was a broom that toppled over in the closet.  

So, how can we tell if the risk alert is fact or fiction?  

I am sure someone who knows a lot more about the brain can give you a technical, science-y answer.  But, if you wanted to be reading a science-y blog you would be.

Here’s how I have come to answer that question.  

Most of the time, when it comes to fear, my brain is a lot like an under-developed, micromanaging leader.  

It blurts out nonsense at inconvenient times while trying to sound very important.  And, most of what it’s warning me about doesn’t actually happen.  

Yet, if I argue for my limitations – whether they be internal or external – I get to keep them.  Keeping those limitations inherently means inaction.  Inaction means limited results.     

Real or perceived limitations lead to inaction, which leads to limited results.  

This isn’t a case for throwing ALL caution to the wind.  But, it IS a case to question how legitimate your limitations truly are.     

Need a hand deciphering fact from fiction when it comes to your limitations?  I can definitely help, just click here to chat!