Avoiding Avoidance: The Guts to Face Discomfort

Avoidance is something we all do—but not all avoidance looks the same. In this episode of Spill Your Guts, we dig into experiential avoidance: the tendency to push away uncomfortable thoughts, feelings, memories, or body sensations. While it can bring short-term relief, avoidance often shrinks our lives and distances us from what we care about most.

We explore why avoidance is so tempting, how it reinforces anxiety, and the science-backed strategies that can help us break free. From checking in with our values, to building exposure hierarchies, to practicing mindfulness and acceptance, we share tools you can use to approach what matters instead of turning away. Along the way, we reflect on imposter syndrome at work, difficult family conversations, and everyday examples where avoidance quietly holds us back—and how courage, compassion, and practice can open us up to fuller, more authentic living.

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Music Credit: Nathan Byrne with Reel Byrne Media.

Note: The information in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not medical or therapeutic advice. Such information is not intended nor otherwise implied to be mental health advice or a substitute for mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a mental health or medical professional. If you become distressed and need support, call 988 to access 24/7 mental health support, call 911, or visit your nearest emergency room.