Feeling Cornered

I last wrote of feeling tension in my shoulders when people make requests of me, even though I thrive on acts of service. By paying close attention to when this tension surfaces, I’ve become aware that it’s associated with feeling cornered. It’s tempting to say that I’m backed into this corner (i.e., others are to blame). In reality, by viewing a request as an imposition or an attack, my own perspective corners me. Empowered by this new connection between tension and mindset, I can make a powerful switch. A colleague walks into my office. They start talking. I feel my shoulders tense. The tension is a red flag and because I notice the tension, I have a choice. I decide that I don’t want to be imposed on, and I don’t want to be attacked. Instead I choose to lean in and engage. I ask how I can help. I wonder what else I can do. I embrace curiosity. Suddenly I’m standing in a field of opportunity. I’ve shared this personal example to inspire you to dig deeper into the wisdom of your body. It starts with noticing. The hunger in your belly isn’t always a physical hunger. The strain you feel in your eyes may reveal more than an eye exam. How many of us wear mouth guards to prevent teeth grinding and neglect to reflect on what that grinding can reveal about how we’re living? What could your body be telling you?