3 Steps to Move Past Yor Fear
What would you achieve if fear never held you back? Fear is a natural emotion, but when harnessed correctly, it can be a powerful motivator for growth. Whether in your personal or professional life, continual growth is key to success. This journey requires you to stretch, learn, and evolve both intellectually and emotionally. Life is constantly changing, and embracing this change can either propel you forward or hold you back.
The Barrier Called Fear
This need for constant growth can motivate you, or it can stop you in your tracks. Fear of the unknown and fear of failure are common culprits that keep many from reaching their full potential. However, successful individuals see fear as a steppingstone rather than a barrier. They know that stumbling is part of the learning process. Similarly, you too can learn, step out of your comfort zone, and embrace the growth that comes from facing challenges.
One of the greatest gifts you can give yourself is the courage to face your fear. Often, the reality of a situation is far less daunting than the fear built up in our minds. Understand that a large portion of your fear is just your brain attempting to protect you; much of this fear is unfounded.
Steps to Conquer Fear:
1. Prepare Thoroughly
Just like an athlete trains for months, prepare yourself for the challenges ahead. Investors study business fundamentals before investing, and you should do the same with any fear-inducing task. For instance, if you're preparing for a presentation, learn your subject inside and out. With a solid foundation, you'll feel more confident and less fearful.
2. Embrace Failure
Allow yourself the possibility of failure. This might sound counterintuitive, but by giving yourself permission to fail, you reduce the fear's power over you. The fear of embarrassment and of failure can lead to physical and mental paralysis. When you tell yourself that it is okay to stumble you lessen the chance you will freeze if you do. Everyone makes mistakes – but the most successful people just keep moving forward. They know it can happen, but they do not let it dictate where they are going.
3. Welcome New Experiences
Say yes to new possibilities. Don’t let an automatic “no” come out of your mouth. If you are invited to an event that in the past you would have not attended – attend.
If you are asked to make a presentation that you normally would decline – accept it.
If you are asked to participate in a group activity – go for it.
These aren't dangerous situations, and by experiencing them, you'll retrain your mind to see opportunities, not threats.
Through practice and new experiences, you'll open up a world of opportunities and recondition your mind. Do not let fear hold you back; you have much to share with the world. Embrace courage and let those around you benefit from your unique contributions.
Take Action Today
Reflect on your fears and take a small step today to move past them. Challenge yourself to do something you've been putting off due to fear. You have the potential to achieve great things — don't let anything hold you back.