I’ve noticed something about myself. Sometimes, when I’m about to attempt something new, I feel an initial thrill of excitement that gets squashed by a familiar surge of fear. It’s similar to a sharp breath blowing out the candles on a birthday cake.
But it feels like an uninvited party guest.
Next, come all the rationalizations of why the thing I’m excited about won’t work, or why I’m not capable of pulling it off. You’ve probably been there at least once in your life. It’s been called “getting in your own way.”
If you’ve felt this way, you’re not alone.
I’ve read about and watched countless interviews of business titans and entertainment and sports celebrities who say they’ve felt the exact same way. But there’s a difference.
They feel the fear and do what they fear anyway.
Imagine how your life would look if you were able to acknowledge that feeling of fear and just go for it? Almost always, you’d find that what you fear won’t come to pass and instead, you’ll achieve something great. If things don’t go as well as planned, you might have a good story to tell and you’ll definitely have learned something.
Change the channel.
Whether it’s trying that new yoga class, presenting a unique business idea to your peers, or taking that far-flung trip you’ve always dreamed of, stop allowing fear to choose your path. Instead, switch your focus to all the wonderful things that could happen if you do what you dream.
Make a list.
I’ve always found it helpful to write pros and cons lists when I’ve been stuck in fear. Often when I’ve read out loud my imagined fears, I’ve started to laugh. At ME. And how unrealistic the list is. When I’ve focused on the list of reasons why I should go for it, I’ve felt encouraged because it’s usually a much longer list.
It all begins with knowing what you want and side-stepping the fear that has become a habit of stopping you. Listening to irrational fears will never allow you to attain your goals.
Start a new habit.
Daily affirm the goal you have and build the habit of focusing your thoughts on what you want – instead of what you fear. When you see your fears for what they are: irrational thoughts, you’ll start taking steps towards living the life you want. You’ll begin to feel more alive and fulfilled than you thought possible. You might even inspire those around you to do the same.
Tell Me:
What’s your most recent memory of moving through fear to accomplish something? How did you do it? Tell me in the comments below. Recalling and celebrating your wins helps you face new challenges with more confidence. Sharing it gives others the encouragement to step out in faith and go for it too!
Want more healthy lifestyle tips and tasty nutritious recipes? Subscribe here to get them fresh off the press straight to your inbox.
Blessings,
Sheila
