Me Do That??? Or: Dealing With Fear
How often have you wanted to make a change but were held back by the thought, "Me, do that??? I'm afraid of..." Susan Jeffers, PhD, provides some valuable insights in Feel the Fear and Do it Anyway. Some of the truths about fear are:
1. Fear will never go away as long as you continue to grow.
2. The only way to get rid of fear of doing something is to go out and do it.
3. The only way to feel better about yourself is to go out and do it.
4. Not only will you experience fear whenever you're on unfamiliar territory but so will everyone else.
5. Pushing through fear is less frightening than living with the underlying fear that comes from a feeling of helplessness.
So, knowing the above, what are some steps you can take toward conquering your fear and taking charge of your life?
1. Fear will never go away as long as you continue to grow.
2. The only way to get rid of fear of doing something is to go out and do it.
3. The only way to feel better about yourself is to go out and do it.
4. Not only will you experience fear whenever you're on unfamiliar territory but so will everyone else.
5. Pushing through fear is less frightening than living with the underlying fear that comes from a feeling of helplessness.
So, knowing the above, what are some steps you can take toward conquering your fear and taking charge of your life?
- First, stop blaming others for what you are being, doing, feeling, etc.
- Second, stop blaming yourself.
- Third, notice when you are NOT taking responsibility
- Fourth, determine what the benefits are of staying stuck. Are the benefits really worth it?
- Fifth, brainstorm and explore all the options facing you - not just the obvious.
- Sixth, decide what your first step needs to be. Then write it down, choose a date to begin, tell another person, and then DO IT!
Susan offers more specifics in her book which many people have found quite helpful. Check it out as a good read to prepare you for the goals you'll set moving forward.