Denial. Not you, of course. (Healthy Living DIY)

We've been talking about awareness. Specifically, about increasing it with the goal of enhanced health.

Of course, there are certain things that get in the way of awareness. We've already talked about focus versus distraction. And about how the human quality of adaptability can backfire. And about how easy it is to get in a rut without realizing it.

Well, how about this one? Denial.

Surely you're not in denial, are you?

Ok, you caught me in a little joke. Denying when you're in denial is sort of the frosting on the cake, isn't it?

Yet it's clear that the simple act of denial gets in our way as often as not when it comes to awareness and health. And it's truly amazing how we rationalize things when we really don't want to see the truth.

It's better for me to keep smoking - I'll just gain weight if I try to quit.
It's better for me to keep smoking - I get too cranky when I try to quit.
It really doesn't matter if I eat nothing but candy. Calories are calories.
It doesn't bother me that I haven't spoken to my sister in 12 years.
Oh, it's just a little bit of indigestion. No big deal.
That ladder looks safe enough to me... I think.

How many times have you had a close call with some minor disaster -- and then afterward thought, "How come I didn't stop when I saw the warning signs? I knew better!"

Funny thing is, we often know better. And then mess up anyway.

Denial is a wonderful thing. As long as it doesn't get out of hand. But how much better is it to clearly acknowledge the truth -- even if you don't like it?

Honestly? Its hugely better. Because even if you don't change your actions one tiny little bit as a result, at least you'll have stopped lying to yourself. And that's worth a lot when it comes to maintaining your integrity and keeping your word.

How much better to honestly say:

I know my health would be better if I quit smoking, but I'm so stressed out right now I simply can't pile on one more change!
Yep, I've got a sweet tooth. But I want what I want. Of coures, the ole' pants are a little tighter than they used to be...
I hate that my relationship with my sister is nonexistent. However, I've approached her several times and it doesn't get better. I just don't know what else to try! I'm holding space for a change, though.
Better get to the doctor. Maybe it's indigestion, but it could be my heart. This isn't the time to take chances.
I know we're on a deadline, but I'd better get someone to hold that ladder. We'll be even more behind if I break something.

Today's awareness tip: Acknowledge the truth.

And our running question log:

"What's the most important thing to do next?"
"Where in my life have I slipped into a rut?"
"What truth can I open my mind to right now?"

Elizabeth Eckert can help you explore how simple everyday choices create health — or undermine even the best of intentions. With a background that ranges from energy medicine to structural bodywork to developmental psychology, this "Stick-To-It Coach" has the experience to support you in creating the healthiest possible expression of — you!

Take our free Less Stress; More Time mini-course!