The desire for safety is deep within us. It’s a biological survival mechanism that comes naturally to all living beings.
In the workplace, the desire for safety controls much of how we operate. We do and say things we don’t believe in. We avoid taking chances. We don’t speak out. Often we choose safety at all costs because we believe we will lose our jobs, title, position, and even our value if we don’t.
But when we value safety above all else, it can backfire. We might stay in a job feeling miserable or end up getting fired because we are so resentful and unhappy.
When we truly believe something, taking risks can be worth it. Even though it may cost us, saying what is true and operating from a place of our inner wisdom ultimately benefits the highest good.
So how do we work with the unconscious agenda of staying safe? Here are a few tips:
- Notice if you operating from a place of clinging to safety.
- Determine if you have enough capacity to hold the risks involved of letting go of your need for safety.
- Practice taking small risks with neighbors, friends, and even waiters. This will build your capacity for asking what you want, and prepare you for the next step.
- Bring this skill to the workplace, tuning into your body to see if you are seeking safety out of wisdom or fear.
- Look at the overall picture and ask yourself some crucial questions: is this the right job for me? Do I love working here? Do I just want a paycheck. Do I want my voice to be heard?