Self-preservation is a deeply ingrained instinct that has been with us since the days of cavemen. Designed to keep us safe from threats, this natural response once protected us from physical dangers. But in today’s world, where threats are less likely to be life-threatening, self-preservation can sometimes prevent us from embracing positive changes and new opportunities.
The idea of self-preservation boils down to our brain’s way of keeping us safe. When it senses change, it raises red flags, signaling us to stick with what we know. Although this protective mechanism once ensured our survival, in our modern world it often holds us back from personal growth, career advancement, and meaningful experiences.
The Challenge of Change
We live in a world that constantly changes—whether we’re moving into new roles at work, making new friends, or adapting to new technologies. In these scenarios, self-preservation kicks in, sometimes manifesting as anxiety, resistance, or avoidance.
When we step back and reflect, however, we can often see that change is neither dangerous nor inherently negative. More often than not, it can be a catalyst for positive transformation, increased productivity, or personal growth.
Building Resilience to Overcome Stagnation
The key to moving beyond this instinct lies in building resilience. A great exercise to cultivate resilience is to make a list of all the changes you’ve experienced in the past year—both those you sought out and those imposed on you. Reviewing this list can help you see that, while some of these changes may have been challenging, very few, if any, were life-threatening. For instance, adapting to a new product when your preferred brand wasn’t available or adjusting to a change in your workplace are examples of relatively minor shifts that, in hindsight, might even have had positive outcomes.
Embracing Change for Personal Growth
Change doesn’t have to mean danger; it can often signify new beginnings and opportunities for growth. While self-preservation serves as a useful instinct, building awareness of when it holds you back is essential.
The next time you notice yourself resisting change, try to recognize this reaction as self-preservation at work. Remind yourself that life’s constant evolution brings new knowledge, skills, and perspectives. Embracing change can help you unlock these opportunities and enrich your life in unexpected ways.
Ultimately, life is dynamic, and the more open we are to change, the more we thrive. Self-preservation has its place, but recognizing when it’s limiting us can be the first step toward a more fulfilling and joy filled life.
