Fear is a friend with limited information. It is a valuable member of the team, but because it is easily triggered and overprotective, it should never be placed in a management position. Fear may get the best of us, whether it is fear of failure, fear of success, or even fear of fear. All of us have experienced fear at some point in our lives and it can be a real stumbling block that holds us back from being truly successful.

Fear cannot be eliminated (nor should we want it completely extinguished since it does provide some value), but it can be effectively managed. There are several ways to manage fear so that it is unable to impede your progress.

First, it is important to separate perception from reality. Feeling something does not mean that the basis of those feelings is logical or even factual. Feelings are real and must be managed, but they are not always founded in truth. So, it is often important to take a moment for some self-examination. Are my emotions a response to something factual that is demanding my attention or have I simply been triggered by something that is based on an assumption and not my current reality?

Second, if you find that you have been triggered, it is important to identify the source so that you will be aware of it in the event that it rears its ugly head in the future. Knowledge is potential power. The greater your awareness, the more skilled you will become in moving beyond fear.

Third, it is helpful to recognize where fear shows up in our bodies. For some, it manifests as a pit in the stomach; for others, a stiff discomfort in the lower back or neck. We are all different and fear affects us in different ways. If we are aware of the pattern, then we can take effective actions in managing or alleviating the effect that fear has on our body via stretches, yoga, meditation, etc….

Fourth, utilize a daily gratitude practice. Keeping a gratitude journal (listing 5 things for which we are grateful as part of our everyday routine). Conditioning ourselves to focus on what is vs. what could or might be is an effective weapon in managing fear.

Fifth, pay attention to the inner dialogue. Fear is emboldened, empowered, and nurtured through repetitive negative self-talk and habitual tragedizing. When we catch ourselves berating ourselves, we can take the opportunity to change the narrative by remembering our capabilities and past victories.

Sixth, create a safe space. Whether it is real or imagined, having a space designated for increased peace and comfort can be an effective means of refueling, revitalizing, and getting back into the game.

Success or sabotage? Fear is a natural part of the journey toward greater success. We can allow it to paralyze or inspire us. If we take the time to create strategies for effectively managing fear, it is less likely to impede our progress overall.

Is this going to be an incredible day? We can either be fearful of what may or may not unfold or we can embrace the unlimited possibilities of the unknown, accepting that it all ultimately works in our favor (if we allow it).