When I’m Scared, I Used to Freeze

By nature, I was a freezer. 

“Danger” would come close and I would clam up, paralyzed. Whether the perceived threat was physical or emotional, I used to shut down.

When I’m Scared, I Leap

Now, when it comes to emotional risk or vulnerability— say, starting a business, a new program, or promoting my services, I tell the fear to fuck off and I leap.

Want to know how I made that shift? Recognizing a simple fact.

We modern day humans have the nervous systems of cavemen.

It’s biology. Making a change feels scary, AND that does NOT mean that you should stay in the comfort zone. 

We have a fight or flight response-- a physiological reaction that’s triggered by perceived threats or danger. 

This built-in defense mechanism requires us to make quick judgements about our safety-- do we run from danger or do we fight it off?

These days, if our basic needs are being met, our safety is about how others will perceive us. It’s about emotional vulnerability. 

Our brains can’t differentiate physical danger from personal growth. It just knows we’re about to do something scary. 

So, when we’re about to take a big leap or make a big decision that will bring about change in our lives, our brains recognize we’re about to leave the comfort zone. 

And fight or flight-- or freeze, in my case— activates.

The caveman nervous system engages.

It serves you well in the forest, but it doesn’t serve you at all when it comes to your creativity and future visions.

Don’t fight the leap. Don’t run from it. Don’t freeze up. 

You are a badass with good ideas. 

Let’s see ‘em.

📸 @darlingrosephotos