Fight or Flight
We’ve been taught since we were young that there are two ways to react to a change in our environment. To fight it, or to escape it. Fight or Flight. The idea came from observing animals in nature. When a grizzly bear encounters a human, it makes a snap decision. Will I risk losing it all by standing my ground and fighting? Or, will I live to see another day by avoiding the battle? Have I really saved myself by running? Does asking myself whether to stay or run predispose me to a loss no matter what decision I make?
For the bear, this decision is instinctual. But, even if it weren’t, the bear would fight his heart out. To his bitter end. Once he engaged, he would forget that he had the option of escaping. He would never accept second best. He would never fight scared of loss. Scared that he made the wrong decision.
As I read my thoughts, I introduce fear into every situation before I even start. What if this isn’t the right place for me to be? What if this isn’t the right decision? What if I made a mistake? By questioning and re-analyzing the decision, I can’t win. No matter what decision it was. I can no longer fully dedicate myself to succeeding in my new post-decision reality. The battle intimidates me. I could have easily run, but didn’t. I could still run, but I’m waiting for a sign. I don’t want to lose, but escape is better than a loss. Or, is it?
