“We numb our minds and heart so one need not be broken and the other need not be bothered.” Peggy Haymes

Feelings are important, no doubt about it. They communicate all sorts of information to us. Most of us prefer to ignore some of that information. Would you much rather feel the good feelings and just jump right over the not so good ones?

We all prefer the good, happy feelings. We are all experts at finding ways to avoid the uncomfortable ones. Food. It comforts… until it’s not so comforting, right?

Alcohol? Many can thank heaven they are spared addiction. Running and exercise are at least a healthier alternative to dealing with your feelings. Binge watching your favourite TV series is a great distractor. So, let’s add to the list.

What do you do to avoid those uncomfortable feelings? Do you shop for stuff you do not need? Are you constantly on the go? Do you use social media non-stop, call or message anyone available? Do you eat, drink and be merry? Do you clean your house obsessively making sure everything is in its place?

Lose yourself in a book? Surround yourself with so much chaos that you can hardly hear yourself thinking? Or maybe you avoid certain places or people or just being alone. Do you work long hours?

Get a front row seat into the life of someone that appears messier than your own? The list could go on and on. At some point you can’t keep avoiding those uncomfortable feelings, no matter how hard you try or what avoidance technique you use. They will keep showing up.

To be continued.