Emotion · Fear family
Dread
noun
Heavy anticipation of something unpleasant you believe is coming and cannot avoid.
How it shows up in the body
A sinking stomach, slow heavy limbs, procrastination, a knot that tightens as the moment gets closer.
What it is telling you
You are bracing. Dread often grows the longer you wait, so it can be a signal to act sooner, not later.
The urge — and the choice
To delay. The choice is to take the first small step now, while the stakes are low.
One thing to try
Ask, “What is the worst realistic outcome, and what would I do if it happened?” Then do the first five minutes.
Practice it: The pause.
