“Thinking will not overcome fear, but action will.” – W. Clement Stone
At one point or another in our lives, many of us encounter “Fear.” It sometimes lies dormant, only to be resurrected by some incident, decision, or encounter. Over time, it may permeate one’s life, so much so that it can become part of our psyche.
Fear is cloaked in many forms. It can be revealed through actions and inactions, such as denial, indecision, downplaying, and procrastination, just to name a few. This could originate from fostered latent negative feelings, such as being judged, not liked, disappointing others, rejection, self-doubt, imagining the worst-case scenario, and others too numerous to mention.
How we identify and react to fear varies with everyone. Any one of the above instances could impact relationships with family, workplace, or friends. For example, tensions could arise with these individuals and may negatively impact their interactions with others.
Additionally, when inundated over extended periods of time, he/she may become unable or incapable of overcoming this and become “paralyzed by fear.” However, there may be hope, especially when the person is receptive and forthright about identifying their fear/fears. The following suggestions may be helpful.
- Analyze – If one is having difficulty in determining which fear is the most dominant, then it may be time to seek out others for support. It might be beneficial to have a sincere, honest discussion with certain trusted family members or friends. They may possess an insight that reveals a side of you of which you were not aware.
- Focus – Once a fear has been identified, one needs to make a sincere, concerted effort to be cognizant of the times in which it arises. When it does, then address the fear and advance through it.
- Persistence – To accomplish this transformation, one needs to be patient and persistent, as it has been ingrained in our persona. Anticipate regression so that when it does occur, disappointment will not be as devastating. When fear reemerges, continue to remain focused on the goal.
- Celebrate – When accomplishing your goal, even though small, it is a step forward; celebrate the feeling of being unencumbered, liberated, and unrestrained from fear. Include part of the celebration with a treat for yourself, such as a favorite dinner, dessert, movie, or whatever you enjoy.
- Professional Help – If one feels that the fear is persistent and great, then by all means, please seek professional help.
In summary, fear can immobilize people—in relationships, personal lives, and the workplace. When this positive transition is successfully accomplished, one is unshackled and liberated from this emotional prison. I hope and pray that this will be of some assistance to you.
“One of the greatest discoveries a man makes, one of his greatest surprises, is to find he can do what he was afraid he couldn’t do.” – Henry Ford
