You know the feeling, it creeps up on you, it’s uncomfortable; it doesn’t feel good. And the most annoying thing is, that the feeling won’t go away. It stays in the room with you, follows you down the hallway and if it’s quiet enough, you almost hear it saying, “Psst, this isn’t working,” or maybe, “It’s time to go.” Whatever the situation, or message, I know you’ve experienced it.
When it hits, and you finally stop and acknowledge it, what’s happens next in your mind? Do you run and hide, in the ice cream and pizza, wine or your favorite cocktail? Or do you call and friend and attempt to justify your position about the situation or person (that isn’t going to go away until you deal with it?) That’s a common response that may make you feel better for a minute, until the nagging voice comes back.
Confrontation. Does the word and the thought of it make you squirm? Will you twist the truth, manipulate a situation, friend, boss or co-worker to deal with it for you, so you don’t have to do it? Another common approach to dealing with something that doesn’t feel good.
If you make the choice to numb out with whatever you favorite vice is, instead of accepting the action you’ve got to take, you just missed an opportunity for growth. If you’re like me, my goal is to grow personally each and every day. If I’m not growing, learning and stretching myself, I’m stagnant.
When you accept the opportunity to grow and deal with the adversity in front of you, you make the choice to take responsibility for your life. Then the door opens to new experiences.
By contrast, if you are constantly complaining about what’s happening, are busy blaming someone else for your situation or telling your story to everyone that will listen, you’re making a choice to hang on to some really toxic energy. You have other options.
Which feels better? Holding on to what’s comfortable—even though it makes you miserable, or letting go and creating space for new opportunities and experiences? Your life is full of options—where will you grow this week?
