Episode 47: The Magic of "What If"
If You Ask, You Must Answer
It’s about the possible blockers AND about the infinite possibilities!
Enjoy!
Listen Here:
(The notes below are only a brief summary of what is discussed in the podcast. Be sure to listen to get all of the goodness! If you would like a full transcription of the episode, please send an email request to: angie@angie-robinson.com. We’d be happy to provide that!)
When we are trying something new, going after a goal, taking on a project, trying to make a decision, etc. – we almost always encounter the unknown. Because the next step or the result hasn’t actually happened yet – there is uncertainty or assumptions. And when we leave our brain to its own devices – it will make up stories. It will create questions. Those stories and questions are simply thoughts - - sentences in our head.
Because our brains are designed to protect us – the stories and questions, by default, will likely be ones that accommodate that protector role.
It is trying to protect us from things like failure, embarrassment, disappointment and regret.
Often times – that protection comes in the form of a question – starting with two words: What if?
Let’s say you want to bring up an idea or request to your CEO. Your brain might start offering you ‘what if’ scenarios (again – in an attempt to protect you).
What if she doesn’t like it?
What if I sound like I don’t know what I’m talking about?
What if mess up and I won’t be considered for a promotion?
Or maybe you need to give some feedback that you consider ‘difficult’ to an employee:
What if I hurt their feelings?
What if they get upset?
What if I get too nervous?
Or maybe you are setting some big, audacious goals
What if I can’t do it?
What if I fail?
What if I don’t know how?
When there is something new – your brain is always going to offer you a counter opinion. That doesn’t stop - you just don’t need to let that part make the decision’s.
The Magic of “What If”
There are two ways in which I think “what if” has magic.
1) When you answer the question – it can actually ground you – give you a dose of reality. “What if” allows you to actually paint the picture - let’s you see the worst case scenario. Often times - you might see that the worst case actually isn’t that bad. It also allows you to make decisions ahead of time. If that assumed scenario happens - you can decide how you will overcome it! When your brain offers you a question - you should answer it. Don’t just let it talk to you!
2)‘What if’ has another side. When the “what if” addresses the doom and gloom side - flip it around! When you do that - you can also see all of the possibilities! This side of “what if” allows you to vision, to dream, to create a reality that could ALSO be.
For example:
When you think: “What if it doesn’t work?” Ask: “What if it does?”
When you think: “What if I fail?” Ask: “What if I succeed?”
When you think: “What if they don’t like me?” Ask: “What if they do?”
When you think: “What if I don’t get the job?” Ask: “What if I do get the job?”
When you think: “What if my business doesn’t work?” Ask: “What if it does?”
Give both sides of the “what if” equal air time and decide where you want to give your energy. It can create magic!
What do you think?
Do you notice your brain offering ‘what if’??
How can you flip it and see the upside?
Links / References
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