How to Overcome Fear and Take Back Your Power

Some individuals seem to have the gift of positive thinking and motivation. However, for others, these traits do not come naturally. Psychology Today describes fear as a normal response to stressors that keeps you safe in dangerous situations. However, irrational fear is unproductive and limiting. Fear and anxiety may stem from environmental influences or may be the result of genetic traits. Regardless of the source, with some effort and instruction, it is possible to overcome fear and take charge of your life. Overcoming fear and taking back your power makes it possible to accomplish goals, improve self-esteem and significantly improve quality of life.

Instructions

• 1

  Identify the fear. Sometimes the source of fear is obvious, but it may not always be so clear. Explore your thoughts and feelings about your fears to determine their true sources. Fear of beginning a new task may be due to fear of failure or disappointment rather than fear of the task. Fear of going on a date may be due to a fear of getting hurt.

• 2

  Write down the fear. Below it, list the best and worst scenarios regarding this fear. For example, if the fear is "failure," a list of worst scenarios might include embarrassment, disappointment or decreased self-esteem. A list of best scenarios might include new opportunities or learning from mistakes.

• 3

  Refute the negatives listed in the worst scenarios column. For example, if embarrassment was listed, ask yourself who it is that makes you feel embarrassed. If no one is making you feel embarrassed, why do you feel that way? It is likely that this is an internal perception rather than something that others perceive.

• 4

  Use positive self-talk. This valuable tool can change the negative thinking patterns that fuel fears. Thoughts such as "I can do this; I am strong; I am powerful; I am going to do my best" can be used in many situations to create positive thinking, which leads to more pleasant feelings and desirable actions. Practice these thoughts throughout the day until they become more natural and occur without effort. Then practice them in the fearful situation. Results are not instant. Overcoming fears takes practice and patience, but is possible with some effort and the right tools.