Humans are still primed to detect threats and dangers that no longer exist-think of the cold sweat when you're stressed about money, or the fight-or-flight response that kicks in when your boss yells at you. Our safety is not truly at risk here-there is little danger that we will starve or that violence will break out-though it certainly feels that way sometimes.
Humans have evolved to be highly sensitive to potential threats, a response that was beneficial for survival in more hazardous times. Today, we often experience stress and anxiety over situations that pose little actual risk, such as financial worries or workplace conflicts. This primal reaction, while rooted in our biology, can lead to unnecessary stress in modern life.
For instance, moments of stress may trigger the fight-or-flight response, even when we face no real danger. Ryan Holiday, in "The Obstacle Is the Way," emphasizes that our perceived threats, while they may feel imminent, are often far removed from the life-threatening situations faced by our ancestors. Understanding this can help us manage our reactions and view challenges as opportunities for growth rather than as threats.
