Are you ready to face your fears?

Fear is one of the most stubborn obstacles that we face on our path to change. Last week, I shared a piece of advice that I give coaching clients about overcoming obstacles – and that is to do the opposite of what your internal dialogue says to do. When fear says “no,” learn to say “yes.”

Our fear can be a useful tool. The fourth step of my CHOICE coaching program is about “integrating fear.” But what does this mean?

 

What it truly means to “face your fears”

Fearlessness is not the goal.

We mistakenly believe that we must remove our fear in order to overcome obstacles and move forward. We think, what’s the point if we’re still afraid?! 

The idea of ridding ourselves of fear is unrealistic. If we waited for our fears to go away, we would be waiting forever. First and foremost, you have to accept that fear will be a constant companion on the path to personal growth.

Even when you’ve seemingly “conquered” one of your fears, another may pop up in its place. Our fears manifest themselves in unique situations every single day.

When it comes to change and growth, the goal is to take action and keep moving forward even when fear rears its ugly head. Because it will.

“Courage is not the lack of fear. It is acting in spite of it.” ~ Mark Twain

 

Look to fear as an advisor and friend

Fear is a natural response that’s meant to warn and protect us. The question, then, is this: From what is your fear trying to protect you?

When we experience fear, we need to take a closer look and examine its source. Our fear is trying to teach us something, and we have the opportunity to learn something about ourselves that may aid us in our change journey.

What is it you’re truly afraid of? Failure? Rejection? Embarrassment, shame, or judgment?

When a child is afraid of the dark, we help them overcome their fear by illuminating the darkness to expose what’s there. In the same way, we need to shine a spotlight on our fears to better understand where it comes from and what it wants to tell us.

The more aware that we are of our fear-based responses, the more control we can take over our own actions.

 

Takeaway

Despite our best wishes, our fears are not going away. Facing our fears is about taking action in spite of it.

Our fear exposes the areas for improvement in our lives. With a new perspective, we can look to fear as an advisor rather than letting it get the best of us.

Do you need support as you face your fears? As a Certified Life Coach, I’m here to help you (1) identify your biggest obstacles, and (2) take action to overcome them. Learn more about CHOICE coaching and schedule your complimentary session today.

 

Photo by Chris Ainsworth | Unsplash