Big 'Buts'

Big Buts.

I've walked around with a big but since I was a kid. It has gotten in the way of so many things throughout my life, and occasionally, it still does.

A familiar barrier to transformation work is that deep learnings are often countered with the voice, "Yeah, BUT..."

These Big Buts can appear as judgments, doubt, or a hyper-focus on consequences.

These Big Buts keep us in a state of victimhood--fearful, avoidant, stagnant, and unable to take a fraction of positive action.

A key to addressing the Big But problem sits with our level of commitment to the Big But's problem:

• How much truth are we giving our Big But?

• How much attention are we giving our Big But?

• Is there any part of us that disagrees with our big but?

• Is there any possibility this Big But is invalid and untrue?

• What might this Big But be doing for you/keeping you from doing or being?

• What does this Big But really want you to know about the situation it's sitting on?

The next time a big but gets in the way, whether it's yours or someone else's, greet it with curiosity. Explore its actual message by asking the Big But questions. Know that every single Big But has a positive intention--a 'pro symptom' that at a deeper level of consciousness is in service of your approval, control, or security. There's some appreciation to be shown towards our big buts.

So next time a Big But seemingly gets in the way, acknowledge it. Express appreciation for its genuine care by asking it questions with a compassionate curiosity.

And then but out.

It's the Vulnerabold thing to do.