Are you an avoider? Do you run and hide when faced with a difficult situation? Ignore phone calls from people for fear of having a not-so-great conversation?

Avoidance is a coping mechanism, often for anxiety. When we tell ourselves that we cannot handle a particular situation, we run away. But like anything that stirs up doubt or uncertainty in us, avoiding only perpetuates the fear. It will only come back in another shape or form to test us again. Will we act or will we run?

Next time you hear that voice telling you to avoid something rather than face the situation and realize you CAN handle it, try one of these:

• Notice your egoic voice telling you "You shouldn't do that. Something bad could happen. You could fail. Maybe you should cancel the meeting." Say "Thank you for that ego. I see you."
• Want the uncertainty. Tell yourself: "I want exactly what I'm feeling now - the doubt, the discomfort. I'm going to tune into how that feels in my body and accept it." And sit with those sensations for as long as it takes.
• Remind yourself you can handle the feelings you are having and that you are not your thoughts.

Tell me how these work for you!