The Source of Fear in Trying New Things

Trying new things feels scary because our brains are hardwired to resist change. 

The ancient reptilian part of your brain thinks that all change is dangerous because back when we lived in caves moving to the next cave over could mean sharing it with a saber tooth tiger which meant you wouldn't share it for long. So what do we do to support ourselves so that we can do new things? 

The most common voice in your head that gives you resistance is your inner critic. 

Your inner critic desperately wants to help you, but it's trying so hard that it's doing the opposite and it holds you back at every turn. The best way to support your inner critic is to offer reassurance that you hear it. You can say, “I hear you. I appreciate that you want to help. I got this. This is a safe and good thing to do. I want to try this.” 

When you acknowledge your inner critic it makes it easier to try new things. 

This week I learned a new meditation technique and I found myself feeling really nervous to the point that I started deleting photos off of my phone instead of sitting down and meditating! 

I realized I was scared of doing this new technique wrong and it felt easier to do something that I know how to do then try something new. 

It’s frustrating to feel this terrifying feeling for something that is safe (and that I can’t really do wrong). I kept reminding myself that I’m safe, that this is an ancient technique that many people have used before me, and that it’s ok to feel scared especially about something new. 

If you're feeling stuck on how to work with your inner critic, journaling is a great way to connect. 

Through journaling you can have a whole conversation on the page that will feel much better than trying to have that same conversation in your head. Put it down on paper and see what you notice. 

You don't have to keep the conversation after the fact, once you’re done, you can burn the paper, shred it, tear it up in tiny bits or you can put it in a frame on your wall and acknowledge your growth and celebrate it. 

If you need help with journaling I’ve got an in person Thoughtful Journaling Workshop coming up on February 23rd and an online workshop on March 1st. 

I'm in your corner cheering you on, offering relentless encouragement, and everything that you need to move through that doubting voice in your head. 

What do you notice when you talk to your inner critic? 

​You're an amazing human 💕 If you want to learn my go-to safe journaling technique then join me for my In Person Thoughtful Journaling Workshop on February 22nd. Get your ticket here or save your spot in my Online Thoughtful Journaling Workshop on March 1st here. 

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