Why is it that in many situations we focus on the negative? The features we don’t like about ourselves… The things we cannot do… and even why we should not do X or Y in a particular situation…

In many of the situations we face, and for the most part, much of our lives are made up of routines: waking up, making breakfast; getting the kids ready for school; going to work; cooking dinner; etc. However, every so often we face a new situation – that is not part of our routine– that takes us outside our comfort zone and into unfamiliar territory.

Usually the response to the prospect of change is one of two: panic; or annoyance. Panic, that we feel ill-equipped to handle the situation, or annoyance, that this challenge has the potential to throw a spanner into our carefully constructed lives.

What then do we do? Often, we want to restore the status quo, and so talk ourselves out of the opportunities that could result, or make excuses why we should not take advantage of opportunities that have presented themselves to us.

In the midst of the annoyance, fear or doubt, we may not appreciate the opportunity for personal growth that could occur, to become better than who we currently are, in addition to other benefits that may be realised.

 

Throughout the day, we invite you to revisit this quote. Below are a few questions you may wish to ask yourself especially if you are feeling fearful, doubtful, panicked or annoyed about a situation or challenge you are facing. For those who journal, you may find them especially useful:

• What have been some of the situations that makes me feel annoyed or panicked, but would have had distinct benefits, had I been prepared to walk through my fear or uncertainty?
• If in the majority of instances I make excuses and try to challenging situations, why might that be?
• How risk averse am I?

 

 

Best wishes, and have a great day!