Fear keeps us from attempting many things that we would really like to do.  We fear the consequences of failure.  We fear the embarrassment of criticism or ridicule.  Some people even fear success.

In actuality, fear is more perception than reality.  Fear can be considered an acronym for “False Evidence Appearing Real.”  It's typically fear of the unknown that is the most paralyzing.  When you imagine a worst case scenario as being a possible outcome, you then opt to avoid the risky behavior entirely. 

Fear doesn't have to debilitating; you can learn to overcome it.  Learning to do so will open up new horizons for you, enabling you to accomplish more than you believed possible.  Since your fears become engrained over time, you have to commit to the time and effort needed to change your perceptions.

The first step in this process is developing an awareness of your fears.  They have been with you so long that they are engrained into your personality.  As a result, fears lose their identity.  Analyze your behavior.  What are the things you want to do or should be doing?  What are the fears which are limiting you?

Now get specific about exactly what you are afraid of and why?  Write down each fear. Try to identify why you’re afraid.  Is your fear based on past experiences or anticipation of what could go wrong?

Look at past experiences.  What went wrong and why?  What did you learn?  If you had it to do over, what would you do differently.  If you are faced with the same situation in the future, what will you do differently? 

Since you now know what strategy you should have taken, you can apply your knowledge and experience to avoi d making the same mistakes in the future.  Now, you can get rid of any fears that are based on past experiences.

How do you handle your fears based on the anticipation of what could go wrong?  Well, what's the worst that could happen?  Usually, the worst case scenario turns out being not nearly as bad as you thought.  Analyze past fears.  How many things were you afraid of that turned out to be no big deal?  How many times have you kicked yourself for being afraid of nothing?

A simple, yet effective way to deal with your fears is to do what you are afraid to do and go where you are afraid to go.  It’s like learning how to swim.  You start out in the shallow end, get used to the water, and then gradually work your way out to where it’s deeper.

You can chip away at your fears in the same way.  Start with small issues.  Build confidence as you overcome minor fears.  Then work your way up to more major issues.  You may not eliminate all fears but you will build your confidence and reduce or eliminate each fear’s power over you.

Gratitude is another tool in the battle against fear.  Rather than letting fear inhibit your progress, be grateful for the opportunities to accomplish your goals.  Instead of focusing on what could go wrong, concentrate on all of the benefits you will accrue.

For inspiration, look to others who have conquered their fears.  Many have successfully dealt with fears far greater than yours.  If they can get past their fears, so can you. 

Fears exist entirely in your mind.  Since you control your fears, you already have within you what it takes to overcome your fears.  Don’t allow another day to go by where your fears are getting the best of you.  Make the decision and take action to start putting your fears behind you.
 
NOW AVAILABLE:  "Dare to Live Without Limits," the book.  Visit www.BryanGolden.com or your bookstore. Bryan is a management consultant, motivational speaker, author, and  adjunct professor. E-mail Bryan at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or write him c/o this paper.  2011 Bryan Golden

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