DREIESKIVA​|Roald Kvam

We’ve all heard the call to «show up» fully in our lives – to embrace our potential, pursue our dreams, and live authentically. Yet, many of us find ways to postpone this, hitting an internal snooze button that keeps us in a state of delay, distraction, or denial. The reasons for this hesitation are as diverse as the individuals experiencing it, but they often stem from fear, uncertainty, or a lack of clarity about what showing up fully even means.

In this article I explore ways in which we postpone showing up fully, the conditions we often place on ourselves before taking action, and what it takes to truly wake up and engage with life. By understanding where and how we hit the snooze button, we can begin to dismantle the barriers that hold us back and step into a more vibrant, purposeful existence.

Ways We Postpone Showing Up Fully

One of the most common excuses for postponing action is waiting for the «right» time. We convince ourselves that we’ll start pursuing our dreams when:

• The kids are older.
• The job is less demanding.
• We’ve saved enough money.
• We feel more confident.

The myth of the perfect time keeps us stuck in a perpetual state of preparation, never quite ready to take the leap. Life, however, is messy and unpredictable.

The «perfect» moment rarely arrives, and waiting for it often means missing the opportunities right in front of us.

Another way we postpone showing up is by filling our lives with busyness. We focus on endless to-do lists, mundane tasks, or social obligations, convincing ourselves that we’re too busy to address deeper goals or aspirations.

Busyness becomes a shield, protecting us from the discomfort of self-reflection or the risks of pursuing something meaningful.

In reality, much of our busyness is a form of avoidance, keeping us occupied while our true passions and potential remain dormant.

Fear is a powerful force that often keeps us from showing up fully. The fear of failure or rejection can be paralyzing, leading us to avoid taking risks or putting ourselves in situations where we might fall short.

• Fear of Failure: «What if I try and don’t succeed?»
• Fear of Rejection: «What if people don’t accept me for who I am?»

This fear creates a safety zone, where we stick to what’s familiar and avoid stepping into the unknown.

Sometimes safety comes at the cost of growth, creativity, and fulfillment.

Perfectionism is another sneaky way we postpone showing up. The belief that everything must be flawless before we take action can prevent us from starting altogether.

For example:

• An aspiring writer might never finish their book because they’re constantly editing the first chapter.
• An entrepreneur might delay launching their business until every detail feels perfect.

Perfectionism creates an unattainable standard that keeps us from embracing the imperfect yet valuable steps that lead to progress.

Many people hit their life’s snooze button by numbing themselves with distractions or escapism. This can take the form of:

• Excessive scrolling on social media.
• Overindulging in food, alcohol, or entertainment.
• Losing themselves in work or hobbies to avoid deeper questions about their purpose.

These behaviors provide temporary relief from discomfort but ultimately delay meaningful engagement with life.

It’s easy to blame external factors for our inability to show up fully. We tell ourselves:

• «I’d follow my dreams if I had more money…»
• «I can’t pursue this path because of my family responsibilities…»
• «The world is too chaotic right now…»

While external challenges are real, they often become convenient excuses for inaction. The truth is, there will always be obstacles, but showing up fully means finding ways to navigate them rather than being held hostage by them.

The Conditions We Place on Ourselves to Wake Up

Many of us set conditions that we believe must be met before we can truly wake up and engage with life. These conditions often serve as barriers, delaying action and reinforcing a mindset of postponement.

We often believe we need to feel confident before stepping into new roles or taking risks. However, confidence is rarely a prerequisite – it’s a byproduct of action. Taking small, consistent steps toward our goals builds confidence over time.

Some people postpone showing up fully because they seek approval or validation from others before taking action. They wait for encouragement, praise, or permission, which can keep them stuck in a cycle of indecision.

Many people delay action until they feel certain about the outcome. They want guarantees of success, clarity about the path forward, or assurance that they won’t face setbacks. However, life’s uncertainties are inevitable, and showing up fully often means embracing them with courage and resilience.

What It Takes to Wake Up

Waking up and showing up fully in life requires a combination of mindset shifts, intentional action, and self-compassion.

The first step to waking up is becoming aware of the ways in which we postpone showing up. This requires honest self-reflection and a willingness to confront our fears, excuses, and patterns of avoidance.

Overcoming inertia doesn’t require grand gestures; it starts with small, consistent actions. Each step builds momentum and brings us closer to fully engaging with life.

Recognizing that imperfection is part of the journey is essential. Showing up fully means being willing to make mistakes, learn from them, and keep moving forward.

Self-compassion allows us to navigate challenges with kindness rather than judgment. It reminds us that we don’t need to be perfect to show up – we just need to be present and authentic.

Clarity about our core values provides a powerful anchor for showing up fully. When we align our actions with what truly matters to us, we find the motivation and courage to step forward.

Waking up often requires the support of others. Trusted friends, mentors, or therapists can provide encouragement, accountability, and perspective.

The Rewards of Showing Up Fully

When we stop postponing and start showing up fully, the rewards are profound:

• Greater Fulfillment: Living authentically brings a sense of purpose and satisfaction.
• Stronger Relationships: Fully showing up allows us to connect with others in deeper and more meaningful ways.
• Personal Growth: Embracing challenges and taking risks fosters resilience, creativity, and self-confidence.
• Contribution to the World: By showing up fully, we contribute our unique gifts and perspectives, making a positive impact on others.

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The ways in which we postpone showing up in life are as varied as the dreams and aspirations we delay. Whether through fear, perfectionism, or distraction, we often find ourselves hitting the snooze button on our potential. Yet, waking up is always within our reach.

By cultivating awareness, embracing imperfection, and taking intentional steps forward, we can overcome the barriers that hold us back. Showing up fully is not about being flawless or fearless – it’s about being present, authentic, and willing to engage with life as it is. In doing so, we awaken not only to our own potential but also to the profound richness and possibility of the world around us.