if you can't do it scared, do it ironically: micro-dosing risk, getting out of your comfort zone

About this video

• Video Title: if you can't do it scared, do it ironically: micro-dosing risk, getting out of your comfort zone
• Channel: Amber Akilla
• Speakers: Amber Akilla
• Duration: 00:19:27

Overview

This video by Amber Akilla explores strategies for overcoming fear and discomfort when trying new things or breaking old patterns. Akilla introduces the concept of "micro-dosing risk" and suggests doing activities "ironically" as a way to bypass fear and encourage progress, even if it feels awkward or scary initially. The video also touches on understanding personal patterns, the impact of the internet on our perception of effort, and the importance of protecting one's self-concept.

Key takeaways

• Micro-dosing Risk: Instead of making huge, drastic changes, take small, consistent steps to rewire your brain and break negative patterns.
• Doing it Ironically: If fear prevents you from doing something, try doing it ironically or "for the plot" to detach from the fear and make it less intimidating.
• Understanding and Breaking Patterns: Recognize thought patterns and behaviors that trigger unwanted actions. The analogy of marbles in jars illustrates how repeated actions strengthen neural pathways, and changing habits requires consciously redirecting those pathways.
• Comfort Zone vs. Growth Zone: Stepping outside your comfort zone will naturally feel uncomfortable, but this discomfort is a sign of growth, not necessarily a reason to retreat.
• Authentic Voice and Self-Concept: Work with your natural personality and voice. Protect your sense of self by setting boundaries and prioritizing your own perception of yourself over external opinions.

Amber Akilla uses the analogy of marbles representing brain cells. These marbles can be directed into different "cups," which represent neural pathways or synapses firing together. When a habit (a thought pattern or behavior) is ingrained, it's like a loop where a specific thought consistently directs marbles into a particular jar. To change a habit, one must become aware of this thought pattern and consciously direct the marbles into a different jar, weakening the old connection and strengthening a new one through repetition.