Facing Problems
Running Away Versus Moving Forward
Source: The Daily OM
There are times when change—moving to a new city or a new home, or changing careers—is the right thing at the right time. But there are also times when the urge for change is really just a desire to run away from problems that need to be faced rather than avoided. These are the kinds of problems that recur in our lives. For example, issues with coworkers that seem to arise at every job we take, or repeatedly getting into unhealthy relationships. A move might temporarily distract us, and even cure the problem for a time, simply by taking us out of the situation in which the problem fully manifested itself.
However, the problem will eventually appear again in our new situation.
One way to make sure you aren’t running away from your problems is to notice whether you are moving towards something that is exciting in its own right, as opposed to something that is appealing only because it is not where you are now. For example, if you are leaving a city because you feel you can’t afford it, you could be reinforcing poverty consciousness, and you might find that you are unable to make ends meet in your new city as well. It would ultimately be less of an effort to stay where you are and look more deeply into your beliefs about money. You may discover that as you address these issues, you are able to make more money simply by changing your mindset. You may still decide to move, but it will be an act with a positive intention behind it and not an escape, which could make all the difference.
Any pain involved in facing our issues is well worth the effort in the end. When we face our problems instead of avoiding them, we free our energy and transform ourselves from people who run away into people who move enthusiastically forward.
It is all about fear.
Fear keeps our present situation alive, no matter how awful or how much we desire to make the change. It is easier to sweep it under the rug and just run away from whatever it is. Been there, done that!
Doesn't fear produce negative thinking?
Just a change in our mindset to one of a positive nature can make the changes possible. Most of the time, it takes small steps, depending on the fear.
If you are stuck in an emotional rut, perhaps it is time to assess your situation, define your goals and break down the necessary steps to make it happen.
Write them down! Start a journal to track your progress. The motivation to keep going is greater when I periodically go back and see how far I have come with my fears.
One of the most important questions to ask yourself . . .
Why am I scared?
Be honest with yourself!
