Psychologia

Avoidance

Avoidance is moving away from situations, emotions, tasks or stimuli that are associated with anxiety, discomfort or overload.

Definition

Avoidance often works immediately: it reduces tension and provides a sense of relief. That's why it perpetuates easily. In the long term, however, it can increase anxiety, narrow life, delay decisions and weaken agency. Avoidance work usually requires small, safe steps of contact.

Key ideas

  1. Krótkotrwała ulga
  2. Długoterminowy koszt
  3. Stopniowy kontakt

Practice and life

Pick one thing you avoid and make a 5% version of it. Not a full challenge, just minimal contact that doesn't overload the system.

Common misunderstanding

It is a mistake to shame yourself for avoidance. It is also a mistake to jump straight into too big a challenge without any adjustments.

Questions for self-reflection

  • Czego unikam?
  • Jaką ulgę daje mi unikanie?
  • Jaki mały kontakt mogę wykonać bez zalania emocjami?

Sources