Hey ,

A few months ago, I finished reading the book Diary of a CEO by Steven Bartlett. 

While reading it, I came across a fascinating phenomenon I had never heard of before, known as the “ostrich effect.”

In case you’ve never heard of it, the ostrich effect is a cognitive bias that causes people to avoid information that they perceive as potentially unpleasant.

The "ostrich effect" gets its name from the way an ostrich hides its head in the sand when it senses danger in the area. The idea is that if the ostrich can simply hide from the threat, it will eventually pass.

Funnily enough, humans are not any different. We often bury our heads in the sand when we have to deal with tough situations, information, or conversations, just like the ostrich.

People who are affected by the ostrich effect might avoid looking at their bills because they are afraid of seeing how far behind they are on payments; they could avoid going to the doctor because they think their health has gotten worse; or they could avoid having a tough conversation with a partner because they think it will make things worse.

But what we don’t realise is that avoiding anything difficult now often just makes our lives even more difficult later.  

So how do we solve this?

1. First, acknowledging and understanding the "ostrich effect" is a crucial first step in overcoming it. 

Once we recognise that we are avoiding something due to fear or discomfort, we can take proactive steps to address the issue head-on. 

It is also worth considering that you might be wrong. We aren’t perfect as humans, and our thinking can sometimes be flawed. It’d be better to consider that possibility rather than assuming we are always right. 

2. Next is to break down the daunting task or information into smaller, manageable steps. 

Rather than checking the bills for the whole year, what if you checked the ones for just this week? Instead of avoiding seeing the doctor entirely, why not do a blood test first? Instead of having a 4 hour uncomfortable conversation, why not start by asking just one question?

By tackling one piece at a time, we can gradually build our confidence and alleviate the overwhelming feeling of avoidance. 

3. Act. 

The last step is easier said than done. But it is where real change occurs. Apply as soon as possible; otherwise, nothing will change. 

Remember that courage is not the absence of fear. It is acting in the face of it.

✍️ A QUOTE TO REFLECT ON:

“Do what is easy, and your life will be hard. Do what is hard, and your life will become easy.” - Les Brown

🤔 A QUESTION WORTH CONSIDERING: 

What is an uncomfortable thing I need to stop avoiding?

That's all, folks. I can't wait to hear what you think. Which one did you like the most? What would you like to have more or less of? Simply reply to this email. 

Have a wonderful week!

I appreciate you taking the time and trusting me with it.

Have a wonderful week!

Nurain.

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