FEAR! – False Evidence Appearing Real
Fear is a distressing negative sensation induced by a perceived threat. It is a basic survival mechanism occurring in response to a specific stimulus, such as pain or the threat of danger. In short, fear is the ability to recognize danger leading to an urge to confront it or flee from it (also known as the fight-or-flight response) but in extreme cases of fear (terror) a freeze or paralysis response is possible.
Additionally, fear is frequently related to the specific behaviours of escape and avoidance, whereas anxiety is the result of threats which are perceived to be uncontrollable or unavoidable. It is worth noting that fear almost always relates to future events, such as worsening of a situation, or continuation of a situation that is unacceptable. Fear can also be an instant reaction to something presently happening.
Here a few profound and helpful quotes that might help you overcome your fears
1. “If you look into your own heart, and you find nothing wrong there, what is there to worry about? What is there to fear?” – Confucius
Fear is not real, it is nothing more than a state of mind. We control our fears, they don’t control us. It’s a built in subconscious response normally designed to protect us.
Action: Next time you feel fear, acknowledge its presence. Then look inwards and tell yourself “it’s OK, I choose to override my fear response and step forward”
2. “Power is of two kinds. One is obtained by the fear of punishment and the other by acts of love. Power based on love is a thousand times more effective and permanent then the one derived from fear of punishment”. – Mahatma Gandhi
We are each driven towards or away from our goal, target, destination, and objective. If we are driven towards it this is a positive experience (Reward).If we are driven away it is felt as a negative experience (Fear).
Action: Consider what your motivational stimulus is for each goal, especially those you appear to be struggling with. If you are driven by the fear of failure or punishment, then what can you do to turn that stimulus into a happy, positive rewarding experience.
3. “We gain strength, and courage, and confidence by each experience in which we really stop to look fear in the face… we must do that which we think we cannot”. – Eleanor Roosevelt
Sometimes it actually makes sense to confront to confront our fears and work through the challenge to reach the other side. This then empowers you and makes you stronger by learning from the experience and opportunity. It generates courage, which is knowing what not to fear. Attack your fear!
Action: Identify something that you are fearful of and make a decision to work to confront that fear and overcome it. By working proactively and managing the situation you have a better opportunity and greater chance to overcome that fear.
4. “Inaction breeds doubt and fear. Action breeds confidence and courage. If you want to conquer fear, do not sit home and think about it. Go out and get busy.” –Dale Carnegie
Sometimes the boldest, bravest step is the first one. However scary it may seem the secret here is to take that initial step; the moment we get the ball rolling, fear starts to dissipate. We get so involved in the process of doing and we actually forget to be scared and it feel great!
Action: When you feel scared, think of one thing you can do right now to get you closer to your desired outcome, however small it may seem take some action, get moving and just do it.
5. “Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond imagination. It is our light more than our darkness which scares us. We ask ourselves – who am I to be brilliant, beautiful, talented, and fabulous. But honestly, who are you to not be so?” –Marianne Williamson (Peace Activist & Writer)
Wow!!! How cool is that! Not being afraid of greatness is something I’m still coming to terms with. But I’m starting to realize that the only way to live life to the fullest (and bring our greatest contribution to the world) is by shining brightly and expressing ourselves fully.
Action: Take stock, everyone has the potential for greatness and to be able to contribute to the world. Tap into your belief systems and start to understand what you believe to be true and what you know to be true. By believing you are talented and beautiful your behaviours will start to change to reflect this.
Remember…. The thing you fear most has no power. Your fear of it is what has the power. Facing the truth really will set you free.
What would you do if you had no fear!