“The irony is that the person not taking risks feels the same amount of fear as the person who regularly takes risks.”
(Peter McWilliams)

Most of us have heard about the fight or flight reactions associated with high anxiety. When scared, our brain stem can take over and try to make us take up arms, or pick up and run away.

There’s another kind of reaction possible in this state, however, and it may be the most common: freeze. We’re terrified so we just tighten up and dare not risk any kind of move at all.

This kind of freeze is how many of us grownups operate overall, particularly as we get older and accumulate marriages, mortgages, and kids. We have so much to lose, we dare not risk any of it.

But not risking anything can be every bit as damaging, and every bit as scary, as risking everything.

What risky move have you been contemplating lately? Giving your oldest kid more freedom this summer? Trying out a new career? Telling your spouse about either one?

What are you risking by NOT taking these risks?

Peace begins with pause,