(Distinctions are subtleties of language that, when gotten, cause a shift in a belief, behavior, value or attitude.)
This Distinction seems to get clearer with age. When we’re younger running out the door and Mom says, “be careful” we tend to shrug it off with an “Oh, Mom” and keep going. Because we don’t see – or yet own – the consequences of our actions. ‘Careful’ just seems a possible interference with our potential fun.
Then one day something unpleasant, of significance, happens and we begin to understand pain.
Pain is one of life’s teaching tools and sometimes a byproduct of our actions. Pain introduces fear. Pain repeated can shift us from being aware of consequences and simply choosing to be careful, to focusing on the pain, therefore being fearful.
The balance between careful and fearful seems to hinge on where you place your desire.
Coaching Point: Do you focus on a desired outcome, being careful to consider the factors to achieve it, or do you focus on fearing the possibility of incurring pain?
Copyright 2021 Steve Straus. All rights reserved.
S:1363 Distinction: Careful vs. Fearful
Published on: December 15, 2021