Removing Barriers -- Are You In Denial?

Like the fires that have devastated our beautiful state, our internal "fires" can be destroying the peace and joy in our lives. Removing these barriers can be akin to removing the dead branches and brush in a drought -- seemingly overwhelming. Yet as overwhelming as this might seem, we have to be in a position to see what is flammable in our lives. At times, we might think we are "handling it" by denying it can happen or that is happening currently. Also, we might think we are handling it by just staying anxious. One of these barriers is Denial and it comes in many forms. It can be ignoring a feeling we don't want, a festering past hurt, a present problem in our work or personal life , an unspoken “IT.” Denial has a lot of distractions. And like your sprinklers running during our current drought --- they may work for a while then eventually we just need rain. Denial is not just limited to individuals --- organizations (large corporations, start-ups, non-profits, even entire communities) experience Denial in the form of ignoring poor communication, unrealistic strategic initiatives, goals, performance targets, profit planning, etc.

DENIAL COMES WITH BENEFITS - Are you clinging to them?    1. If I don't admit that I/we are suffering, it's not true. 2. If I don't acknowledge there is a problem, I am not responsible for making change by doing my part. 3. I don't have to feel anxiety or guilt. 4.I don't have to take action or inconvenience my current routine. Anyway, I am helpless to do anything about it because I didn’t cause it.   The problem with living this way is that I promise you will eventually be empty and unprepared to save what is most valuable to you.  Embracing denial often means you will squander real opportunities to contribute what you can influence (not control)the problem. Denial prevents you from finding support which, in turn, can help you build bridges with others. Learning and understanding helps us to build our strength to face our IT because we are not alone in our journey! Realizing that you are not alone comes with innumerous benefits -- you have others that can share your journey and even your burden. You have resources and support. Find out what if anything you can do to prevent your potential or current fires in your life. Please reach out to me if you think I can help you.