It's natural to avoid distasteful, unwelcoming, and tough situations. Many of us simply live with conditions, habits, and challenges rather than do the hard work to overcome or deal with that? Why is avoidance part of our nature as human beings and how can we change that?
For starters, a lot of people simply don't have the time to deal with pressing situations since it's often true in society today that people have jobs and responsibilities that far outpace the hours in a day or reasonable energy. I wish society would change some of the common patterns to provide greater time for people to focus on their health, relationships, and good living. I believe that's possible and important when it comes to promoting good living for all.
Next, who wants to think about their shortcomings or challenges? Thinking about that simply reminds us of our weaknesses, and sometimes that can be very painful.
And, most of us spend more time focused on what we enjoy, what makes us feel good, and what we're good at. It's great to feed your passions and strengthen your talents, but we do have to shore up our weaknesses too.
Avoidance in many ways blocks us from living our best lives. So instead it's best to systematically deal with that which you avoid. How can we do that?
First of all, identify and embrace the challenge. What are you avoiding? Why are you avoiding it? What will help you to focus on those challenges. People all around me avoid--some avoid paying their bills while others avoid dealing with health challenges. I know people who avoid completing academic courses or projects and those who avoid the simple, but often dull jobs, of maintaining a house, car, yard, or wardrobe.
Once you've identified what you avoid and how that impacts your life, then you can make a plan of action. You may need the help of a coach or counselor or you may need to take something off your schedule to make time to focus on that which you are avoiding. However you do it, to make a plan and follow that plan will help you reach success.
Avoidance can block us from being our best selves. We all have challenges of one kind or another, and rather than avoid those challenges, make the time to focus in on them and change your life for the better. (Lesson to self as well).