ESSAY: Common Fears: Choosing A New Response

[Guest guest]

Common Fears: Choosing A New Response

July 24, 2006

 

Everyone has fears-it is a natural part of being human. Fear can protect

us from harm by sending a rush of adrenaline to help us physically deal

with potential danger. But there are times when fear may keep us from

participating fully in life. Once we realize that fear is a state of

mind, we can choose to face our fears, change our minds, and create the

life we want to live.

 

Our minds are powerful tools to be used by our higher selves; like

computers, storing and using data to make certain connections between

thought and response. We have the ability to observe these and choose

differently. No matter where the fear came from, we can create new

connections by choosing new thoughts. When our souls and minds are in

alignment, we create a new experience of reality. This journey requires

many small steps, as well as patience and courage through the process.

Here's an example: You decide to overcome your fear of driving on the

freeway. Your plan of action starts with examining your thoughts and

finding a new way of seeing the situation. When you're ready, you enlist

a calm companion to support you as you take the first step of merging

into the slow lane and using the first exit. Your heart may be racing,

but your confidence will be boosted by the accomplishment. Repeat this

until you are comfortable, with or without help, and then drive one exit

further. When you are ready, you can try driving in the middle lane, for

longer periods each time, until you find yourself going where you want

to go. This gradual process is similar for conquering any fear, but if

you find it overwhelming, you can always seek the help of a professional.

 

You may think that you are the only one with a particular fear, that

nobody else could possibly be scared of ordinary things such as water,

heights, public speaking, or flying. These types of fears are very

common, and you can have great success overcoming them. Remember, it is

not the absence of the fear but the courage to take action anyway that

determines success. When we learn to face our fears, we learn to observe

our thoughts and feelings but not be ruled by them. Instead we choose

how to shape the lives we want.

 

 

from the Daily OM

 

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