(Distinctions are subtleties of language that, when gotten, cause a shift in a belief, behavior, value or attitude.)

 

Fight, Flight, Freeze, or Faint are well-known reactions to threat situations and are described thoroughly in psychology literature. This distinction introduces another option.

Sometimes, when we’re given the opportunity to be free, we freeze. The reasons for this are many and unique to each person and situation. You may be in unknown or unfamiliar territory in your life. You may not have given yourself permission to be free. Or you may automatically be in the grip of the freeze reaction and have not yet realized you have the additional ability to observe yourself freezing and respond differently.

You do have that option.

When you find yourself freezing, practice asking, “What can I do to free myself?” You will probably find that you quickly master this new option.

 

Coaching Point: What prevents you from being free now?

 

Copyright 2008 Steve Straus. All rights reserved.