Where’s the Escape Hatch?
It’s that urge to dodge life’s responsibilities and avoid facing uncomfortable realities. We’ve all been there—scrolling through TikTok, binge-watching shows, or slamming down the rest of that Pringles can. Without realizing it, we can drift into escapism. The problem is that it’s only a short-term solution. The reality we’re avoiding eventually catches up—and when it does, it’s usually not so kind.
Escapism and Avoidance: Two Sides of the Same Coin
Escapism and avoidance often go hand in hand. Avoidance is steering clear of tasks or situations that bring on anxiety or discomfort. It’s something I notice often—people avoiding actions that could bring them closer to their goals because they want to dodge fear or uncertainty.
Avoidance might offer temporary relief, but it ultimately results in more anxiety and stress. The thing we’re avoiding doesn’t go away; it grows, becoming even more daunting. To overcome this, it’s crucial to break things down.
Overcoming Avoidance: Start Small and Break It Down
The brain can only tackle one problem at a time. If you try to handle everything at once—whether it’s starting a business or writing a college essay—you’ll get overwhelmed. When we break tasks down into manageable pieces, it becomes easier to handle. Start with the basics. If writing an essay sounds impossible, start by just talking to someone you trust about your ideas. These small actions build momentum.
Self-Compassion Is Key
Another way to counter avoidance is by practicing self-compassion. Yes, it’s important to hold yourself accountable, but beating yourself up only makes it worse. We’re human, and avoidance is a natural response to discomfort. The goal isn’t to be perfect, but to catch yourself in the pattern and try a different approach. That said, too much self-compassion can turn into a victim mindset. Balance is key—be kind, but firm with yourself.
Visualize Success
Visualization can be a powerful tool to reduce avoidance. When we mentally rehearse positive outcomes, we give our brain a reference point, making it easier to handle challenges. But remember: visualization isn’t magic. It’s not about imagining success and waiting for it to happen—it’s about preparing yourself mentally for the journey ahead. A study published in Neuropsychologia found that mental imagery activates the brain’s motor cortex in the same way as physical practice, enhancing performance by creating a neural blueprint for action.
We all look for escape hatches now and then. The key is to notice when we’re using them to avoid something bigger and have the courage to turn around and face it. Take things one step at a time, be kind to yourself, and visualize success. The reality we’re avoiding often holds the growth we need the most.