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Cognitive Inflexibility Is Like Drowning In A Mirage
Once you wake up, you can breathe, and what a wonderful thing
I was stunned when the hints and nudges started to come from the back of my mind.
“Steph, you’re doing that thing you’ve read about. You’re being all-or-nothing here. You’re holding onto a failing strategy or game plan. You need to jump ship, but you refuse. What’s up, girl? Why can’t you let go and pivot here?”
I looked at myself in the proverbial mirror.
Me? Inflexible? That seemed the most unlikely idea in the world. I’m known for winging it, trying new things, and jumping in. I value being broad-minded and accepting of ideas, people, and circumstances. I’m chillax and curious. I love to learn. I want to consider all angles. I’m totally flexible, aren’t I?
Yes, in some ways. But those aren’t the only ways people can be flexible. There are other ways that we need to internally pivot, and the evidence is starting to show that maybe I don’t. And if so, not fun.
Lately, these hints have wafted through more frequently, probably not because I’m becoming more inflexible, but because now I’ve unearthed a hidden piece of me. I notice it more.