No, I am not talking about the “F” word that rhymes with duck but the other “F” word that can be debilitating and paralyzing.  That word is “FEAR”.  How many times has this kept you from living your best life?  It kept me paralyzed for many years until I decided to end an abusive marriage.  Taking that step propelled me into a new life filled with wonderful and sometimes challenging experiences.  Let’s look at what “fear” is and what we can do to overcome it.

Fear is a fundamental emotion that all humans experience. It's an instinctual response to perceived danger that has been pivotal for survival. Think “fight of flight” here. However, when fear runs unchecked, it can become a debilitating force that holds us hostage, preventing us from living fully and embracing our best lives.

Many of us experience fear as a background noise that whispers doubt and magnifies the risks of new endeavors. It could be the fear of failure, of rejection, or even the fear of success that keeps us in our comfort zones. This kind of fear is sneaky—it doesn't paralyze us but nudges us into a life of half measures and unfulfilled potentials.

Living under the shadow of fear means constantly downplaying our desires and capabilities. It means turning down opportunities that could lead to joy and fulfillment because we are too scared to step into the unknown. We stick to the familiar paths, even if they are unfulfilling, because they are 'safe'. The result is a life not fully lived, dreams not pursued, and a quiet resentment that simmers beneath the surface of our daily routines. Has this happened to you?  Or worse, are you stuck in this cycle of fear?

The truth is fear never truly disappears. It is a part of being human. However, recognizing and confronting our fears can lead to profound personal growth and freedom. We can begin with identifying what scares us. This involves introspection and sometimes, the help of a therapist or a coach. Once we know our fears, we can challenge them.

One effective method to challenge fear is to gradually expose ourselves to it. If you're afraid of public speaking, start with small, supportive groups before moving to larger audiences. If fear of failure is holding you back, break your goals into smaller, manageable tasks and celebrate each achievement, no matter how minor it might seem.

Moreover, reframing our perspective on fear can change our relationship with it. Instead of viewing fear as a barrier, we can see it as a compass pointing towards areas in our lives that need attention and growth. This mindset shift can be empowering and motivating.

In conclusion, while fear can confine us, facing it can be the beginning to a life marked by courage and freedom. The choice isn't between fear and fearlessness but between allowing fear to control our lives or using it as a tool to forge a path toward a richer, more vibrant existence.  Remember to think of FEAR as False Evidence Appearing Real and you are well on your way to living your best life!

How have you handled “fear”?  I would love to hear about it!

Until next time,

Deborah Griffiths

Website: www.brokentoboldness.com

Email: brokentoboldness7@gmail.com