We’ve been exploring how emotional discomfort can limit our problem-solving potential.

The desire to get rid of that discomfort can make us rush through the process, fixate on a single option too quickly, and ignore other potential solutions that may have a much greater impact.

Do you hear yourself saying something like, “Other people might let their emotions affect their thinking. But not me.”

Perhaps. But let’s dig a bit deeper with a quick experiment.

Think about a high-stakes, complex challenge that you’re dealing with right now. Something that could have real and long-lasting consequences on your business.

Take 30 seconds to write down a few key details about this challenge, including the potential negative short- and long-term impact.

Then take another 30 seconds to review what you just wrote, paying close attention to the thoughts and emotions that arise in your awareness.

• What specific thoughts did you experience? Were they positive hopes and expectations, or were they worries and fears?
• What sensations and emotions did you feel in your body? Were they pleasant or unpleasant?

Some of us love a challenge, and tend to remain optimistic about the future in almost any situation.

But for the rest of us, our thoughts and emotions can easily bounce between “mildly uncomfortable” and “completely overwhelming.”

It’s no wonder we latch on to the first halfway decent solution we can think of. The last thing any of us want to do is experience this kind of vulnerability, uncertainty, and pressure any longer than necessary.

But here’s the good news…

By allowing yourself to consciously experience that discomfort, you’re better able to recognize when your avoidance habit gets triggered.

And with that awareness comes choice.

The choice to keep avoiding the discomfort. Or the choice to take a deep breath, lean into the feeling, and give yourself the time you need to discover the best solution to your problem.

What will you do today to bring more awareness to the triggers that are short-circuiting your problem-solving potential?

Will you practice exploring your thoughts and feelings with more openness and curiosity?