Stepping Into Fear
Fear is a universal human emotion that can easily become a constant companion, especially in the Rare world. The uncertainty, the unknowns, and the daily challenges can leave a person feeling anxious and fearful. Yet, it is a natural response to the unknown, a self-preservation mechanism that has evolved over millennia.
Fear can be paralyzing if we let it take over, and it's all too easy to become stuck in our lives when we are unwilling to step outside our comfort zones or feel uncomfortable. However, it's essential to understand that fear doesn't have to be a roadblock, dictate our choices or prevent us from living a fulfilling life. It is a process to step through fear. First we have to learn to acknowledge our fears and then to consciously choose to move forward despite them.
An exercise we did in our Thursday group was creating a Confidence Anchor. The best way to do this was by acknowledging a fear or anxiety. Once you’ve done that, find something about that situation that you can find exciting. (For example, someone may have a fear of flying, but on their next trip they are going to see their best friend. This is something to be excited about!) Then, once you have FELT the excitement of that… list two things that you KNOW about yourself, in that situation, to be true. (For instance, “I am good at self-soothing with music. I can create a playlist to listen to during the trip.” Then add one more detail you KNOW about yourself, like “I have a great support system who can help me on the front and back end of each plane ride.”)
Remember, bravery isn't the absence of fear; it's the decision to act despite it. So, I encourage you to ask yourself: What would it be like to step into a situation, even though you are afraid or anxious? I can't promise that fear will magically disappear, but I can assure you that by confronting it head-on, you'll discover a reservoir of strength and resilience you didn't know you had. You'll grow, learn, and find that the rewards of facing your fears far outweigh the temporary discomfort they bring.
When we allow fear to dictate our choices and actions, we become stagnant in our lives. We grow comfortable in our routines and avoid situations that make us uncomfortable. In essence, we invest too much energy in trying to shield ourselves from the feeling of fear, which ultimately hinders us being our best Self. Life is too precious to be put on hold due to fear. I encourage you to choose to embrace the unknowns, to take calculated risks, and to be the best you that you can be in the moment, fear and all. You might just surprise yourself with the incredible strength you possess.
From the unknown,
Pamela
