Our brain is designed to keep us safe. This can, and probably will work against us each time we consider stepping out of our comfort zone, or are forced to by external circumstances, causing us to experience a natural resistance to change. The first step, if we are going to grow then, or to adapt to a challenging situation, is to become aware of what is happening to us, both psychologically and physiologically, This means recognizing that it is easy to misinterpret these feelings of fear and anxiety as a reason to not take action, when really it is our brain attempting to adjust to the changes we want, or need to make.
There are three main reasons for these feelings of hesitation, fear and anxiety, as well as thoughts of not being good enough, capable enough or strong enough to handle the challenge that making change requires. The first is uncertainty. When we experience something we have not had to deal with before, the brain interprets this as a threat resulting in something called the threat response kicking in, which is geared to the amount of uncertainty presented by the situation. The second is high emotion which also triggers fear and anxiety, and the third is new situations. Our normal routine is run by a part of the brain called the Basal Ganglia which takes little energy to operate. However, anything new in our lives is run by the part of the brain known as the Pre-Frontal Cortex and this part of the brain requires a high amount of energy to operate. This is why, when change and having to deal with new situations happens, we experience fuzzy thinking, fatigue and forgetfulness.
In summary then, we need to interpret what is happening to us during periods of change and uncertainty correctly, recognizing that when change is happening, or when we choose change, these are naturally causing feelings of threat and fear. We also need to be allowing sufficient time to adjust to these situations and to process these emotions so as not to become overwhelmed by them.
Finally, when it comes to applying these principles in our work life, where we want to make a positive difference to the lives of others, we need to approach new situations professionally and to recognize that growth comes from stepping out of our comfort zone which demands that we develop competency in resilience and hardiness.
To find out more, join me on my regularly held complementary 40 minute interactive Zoom sessions held every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Simply email me at: https://geofffrostandassociates.ca/ and I will send you an invitation for whichever day works best for you.
