Four Ways Fear is Holding You Back
Have you ever wanted to change your career path, explore a new hobby, or maybe even move to a different city, but something always seems to get in your way?
Do you feel stuck when it comes to making positive changes in your life that you know will likely help to create a happier you?
It may be fear that's stopping you in your tracks. In fact, fear is the number one reason we tend to feel 'stuck' when it comes to making changes in our lives.
To be clear, some level of fear is necessary in our lives to protect us from danger. But sometimes we create our own fear and this can really block our progress toward our goals.
Maybe you've heard of the acronym F.E.A.R.: False Evidence Appearing Real. This means that our fears are often a result of our thinking patterns, rather than being based on actual facts.
Let's take a closer look at some of the key ways your fear can hold you back from living your best life.
Fear of Failure
Trying new things comes with risk, and taking a risk means there's a chance that you might fail. Sometimes you might think it's easier to stay where you are rather than to put yourself out there. You might be so worried about failing that you're reluctant to try new things and simply can't get motivated to take that leap forward in your job or personal life. Making mistakes comes with the territory. Realizing that we really do learn from our mistakes can help you to view failure as a part of the process toward achieving your goals.
Fear of Rejection
Everyone wants to be accepted by others. This is a natural response when it comes to our social interactions. But sometimes you might find that you put others' feelings before your own. Maybe you have a hard time saying no, even when expectations are unreasonable. Being a people pleaser can result in taking on too much responsibility or being taken for granted. Fear of rejection can lead to missing out on opportunities, or developing unhealthy, codependent relationships and neglecting your own needs.
Fear of Not Being Good Enough
Feelings of inadequacy can prevent you from going for it when it comes to your desires. You might be struggling with self-confidence and feel that you're not worthy to have what you want. Imposter syndrome can leave you feeling like you're not enough of an expert when it comes to your skills and accomplishments. You worry that others might see you as a 'fraud' so you shy away from sharing your expertise with others. This self-doubt can stand in your way of doing and having all that you want.
Fear of Change
Change is uncomfortable. You're not alone if you have trouble stepping out of your comfort zone. It's hard to plan for something when the potential outcome is unknown. Moving away from what is familiar to what's new and unknown can be scary and overwhelming. Because of this, you might stick with what's comfortable, even while having that nagging feeling inside of you that maybe you're missing out on something bigger.
These are just some of the ways that your internal fears can keep you from moving forward with your life plans. It takes courage to face your fears. When you see your value, and decide to work through your fears by taking action, you can become unstoppable in realizing your dreams.
Susan Jeffers, author of Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway, writes of recognizing and feeling your fears, changing your viewpoint, and using clear strategies and helpful mantras including "I'll handle it!". Susan helps readers to see that each step forward is practicing courage, and through this practice we learn how to navigate fear in our daily lives so it no longer binds us or holds us back.
It's important to surround yourself with positive people who support you on your journey. Seek out the support that you need to help you unblock the fears that are keeping you stuck. This can go a long way when it comes to staying hopeful and taking action steps to help you find success.
By: Patty Canton
