5 Ways to Transform Your Fears Into Your Power
Fear kills many dreams in this world. Too many people are talented but never chase their dreams. They rationalize their decision by saying that they’re being “practical” or choosing “security” for their family and themselves.
According to Jonathan Fields, the author of Uncertainty: Turning Fear and Doubt into Fuel for Brilliance, risk of loss, uncertainty, and exposure to judgment are the “three horsemen of fear”.
Here are five ways to turn your fears into your fuel instead of letting it stop you.
1. Find people who have successfully done it before
If your fears stop you from doing something, find people who were once at your level and faced the same fears. They will give you practical answers to all your questions.
You will be surprised by the help you receive, if you ask for it. More often than not, people are happy to help others who are dealing with the same problems that they themselves once had to deal with.
2. Know Your Why
Until you know your why, the source of your motivation, you will never try wholeheartedly. Your half-hearted effort will create mediocre or below average results and you’ll settle with them. Therefore, it’s important to set a goal that is incredibly meaningful to you.
Write down your why. It may look like this:
“I want to improve my skills so that I can provide a better life for my family.”
“I want to go to the gym every day to feel better about myself and have more energy throughout the day.”
3. Focus on The Solution
The mind’s natural tendency is to focus on the problem. We fall prey to our own negative self-talk, not realizing that they are just thoughts running through our head. It’s not necessary to identify with them.
When you feel afraid or stuck, ask yourself, “How can I get through this?” or “What small step can I take to get past this obstacle?” When you train your mind to think this way, it’ll give you numerous solutions to get past the obstacles you’re facing.
Learn to tame your mind. Focus on the solution, not the problem.
4. Act As If
‘Act the way you’d like to be and soon you’ll be the way you’d like to act.’ – Bob Dylan
People often wonder how to become strong and courageous. The answer is a bit counter-intuitive. When you feel weak, take bold action, any action no matter how small makes a big difference.
Law of reversibility says that “If you feel a certain way, you will act in a manner consistent with that feeling.” But the reverse is also true. So if you act a certain way, you will create the feeling consistent with your actions. In short, act bold and you’ll become bold.
5. Express Gratitude
Gratitude is one of the most powerful antidotes to fear. You cannot feel afraid and grateful at the same time.
When you are afraid, your perception of future possibilities gets distorted and you think from a contracted mindset. When you feel grateful, your consciousness expands, and you’re able to think better and make wiser decisions.