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Writer's pictureColleen Pimentel

Conquering Fear



Conquer fear by understanding it.


Fear

What is it? Fear is that thrilling emotional response that kicks in when we sense a threat, real or imagined. It can show up as anxiety, dread, or panic, pushing us to steer clear of certain situations or decisions. Why does it have such a grip on us? Fear is incredibly powerful because it taps right into our instinctual drive for survival! It can freeze us in our tracks, making us hesitant to take risks or embrace change. The fear of failure, rejection, or the unknown can feel overwhelming, keeping us clinging to what we know, even when it might not be in our best interest.


How can we conquer it? Conquering fear is all about making a conscious effort to face it head-on and understand it. By acknowledging our fears and reframing our thoughts, we can start breaking down the barriers they create. Gradually exposing ourselves to our fears, seeking support from others, and building resilience can empower us to take bold steps forward!


Have you ever really wanted something but felt scared? You're afraid of leaving the familiar for the unknown. This feeling is incredibly common and often rooted in our natural instinct to seek safety and security. We know that stepping into the unknown is frightening because we understand what to expect in the familiar. The routines and environments we inhabit provide a sense of comfort, even if they may not be entirely fulfilling. And let's face it, maybe the familiar isn't bad; we just want something different. The desire for change is a fundamental aspect of human nature, yet it often comes with the weight of apprehension. And maybe that different comes with many risks, risks that can seem daunting and insurmountable. Of course, the unknown involves risks that can be both tangible and intangible, and this uncertainty can deter us from pursuing our dreams.


Here's the thing: the familiar also carries risks, but we convince ourselves that it isn't risky. Nonsense. Consider leaving that high-paying job to venture out on your own. This decision may appear to be straightforward and secure, yet it is fraught with its own set of challenges.


  • How do you know that job will still be there? The reality is that job security is an illusion; companies can downsize, restructure, or even close unexpectedly.

  • How do you know it will remain high-paying in the future? Economic fluctuations, industry changes, and personal circumstances can all affect your financial stability.

  • What do you risk by staying? The risk of stagnation, of not reaching your full potential, of watching life pass you by while you remain tethered to a role that no longer inspires you.

  • What is the cost of complacency? Complacency can lead to a gradual erosion of passion and ambition, dulling your sense of purpose and fulfillment. What does it do to your soul? It can create a sense of disconnection, leaving you feeling unfulfilled and yearning for something more.

  • What is the cost of fulfillment? Pursuing what truly resonates with you may involve stepping outside your comfort zone, facing your fears head-on, and embracing uncertainty. What does it do to your soul? The pursuit of fulfillment can invigorate your spirit, reignite your passions, and ultimately lead to a deeper understanding of yourself and your desires.


These are all choices, and no, absolutely not, staying doesn't mean there aren't risks. There are just risks that you're not considering. Each path we take, whether it leads us into the familiar or the unknown, carries its own set of potential outcomes. The key lies in recognizing that fear is a natural part of the decision-making process. By reframing our perspective on fear and understanding the risks involved in both staying put and moving forward, we can empower ourselves to make choices that align with our true aspirations and values. Embracing the unknown may be daunting, but it can also open doors to opportunities we never imagined possible.

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