**Originally written for a coaching anthology book published through Radiant Coaches Academy; found here: https://a.co/d/71saue5For the written version: https://www.adventuresofcommunity.com/the-big-subtlety-avoidanceIn this episode, I’m reading a chapter I wrote called “The Big Subtlety: Avoidance,” which was recently published in an anthology. This piece is incredibly personal, it's about how avoidance showed up (and still shows up) in my life, in ways that looked like overgiving, overworking, people pleasing, escapism, perfectionism, hyper-independence... you know them.For years, I thought I was just being helpful or productive, but I was actually running from discomfort, emotions, and even love. Avoidance became my coping mechanism, my armor... and eventually, my cage.In this episode, I share:My own “avoidant flavors” — from ADHD and anxiety to spiritual bypassingThe hidden ways avoidance shows up in everyday lifeHow avoidance masks itself as ambition, generosity, or busynessWhat helped me start facing myself (somatic tools, reframes, and deep inner work)Why awareness is the key to choice — and choice is the path to empowermentChapters:00:00 Intro: Why I Wrote About Avoidance01:15 My Story: Privilege, Guilt & People Pleasing03:25 The Roots of Avoidance05:10 Escapism in Disguise: Travel & Hustle07:20 Defining Avoidance09:05 How Avoidance Shows Up in Everyday Life11:00 The Cost of Avoidance12:45 Avoidance in Coaching & Growth Work14:20 Common Avoidant Flavors (“The Commoners”)17:10 My Personal Avoidant Flavors20:00 Tools for Awareness & Healing22:10 Closing Reflections: From Avoidance to Empowerment23:30 Thank You
