- Recognizing Avoidance Behaviors
- Why Shouldn’t I Run Away From My Problems?
- How to Stop Running Away From Your Problems
Everyone has problems. Giving yourself some space from these issues can help you get a fresh perspective. However, if you keep walking away from that problem and never address it, it won’t just disappear. Running away from your problems is tempting, but there’s a better, healthier way. In this post, we’ll discuss how to stop running away so that you can face difficult circumstances head-on.
Recognizing Avoidance Behaviors
When faced with an unpleasant or threatening situation, there are generally two options — fight or flight. Fight means you stay and face a problem until it’s resolved, no matter how messy it may get. Flight sends you running in the opposite direction. Some people have run away from their issues for so long, that flight seems ingrained in their nature — this is the escapist mentality.
Not all forms of escapism are unhealthy. However, continually avoiding reality through entertainment or fantasy only means your problems get pushed aside for now — not forever. Here are some examples to help you recognize escapism and avoidance behaviors:
- Seeking out alternative activities to numb painful feelings, such as sleeping, playing video games or watching TV
- Focusing almost exclusively on work
- Addictions such as emotional eating, alcohol or drugs
- Repeated moves to start fresh
- Rebounding after a painful breakup
- Staying in a boring job to avoid failure
Why Shouldn’t I Run Away From My Problems?
While running away seems like a quick fix, most people find that they can’t run away from their problems forever. Leaving may be more comfortable, but staying put is where real growth happens. Here are a few reasons to stop avoidance behavior:
- Problems eventually catch up to you, and you’ll find yourself running into the same or similar situations.
- It doesn’t teach you to grow or better yourself.
- Facing problems teaches you perseverance, resilience and strength.
- You’ll gain a sense of pride and independence.
How to Stop Running Away From Your Problems
Ending the cycle of running away and facing the problems that you’re most afraid of requires strength and courage. Here is some advice on dealing with escapism so you can stop running and start growing:
- Choose to stand and fight: First, you must decide to stand up to your fears and battle them.
- Embrace discomfort: Most things worth gaining require some amount of discomfort. Whether it’s monotony at work, the effort it takes to exercise every day or even the pain necessary to confront issues in therapy, embrace these uncomfortable feelings as part of the growth process.
- Find support: Seek out support and insight from others who have walked the path you are embarking on, including friends, family or a support group.
Find Experienced Counselors to Help You Deal With Escapism
Even if you’re determined to stop running away from your problems, this can be quite difficult on your own. At Taylor Counseling Group, our team of compassionate, professional therapists will guide you as you overcome your fears and learn to face your problems. Start living life on your own terms. Schedule an appointment online at one of our locations in Central Texas.
