The key to overcoming fear is learning how to move through it. When we feel fear, many of us have a tendency to react by pulling back. Fear sometimes warns us of danger and encourages us to protect ourselves, in which case it may be useful to pull back. At other times, fear arises when there is perceived danger but no real threat of harm.
Do one thing every day that scares you. –Eleanor Roosevelt
In this case, pulling back only serves to reinforce the fear, giving our body and mind the message that whatever we fear really must be scary and dangerous. The way to overcoming fear or any other difficult emotion is pausing to be present with it, investigate it, and discern our wisest response. If there is no real threat or danger, moving forward in spite of our fear may be the most empowering thing we can do for ourselves.
Developing a regular mindfulness practice can support us in overcoming fear and creating a greater sense of ease, an open heart, and taking consistent action toward our intentions. If you’ve been wanting to develop a regular practice and integrate it into your everyday life, check out my 8-week mindfulness training online program, MBSR online.
Jen Johnson is a mindful life coach. She has been teaching mindfulness for 30+ years. Her areas of speciality include mindfulness, stress reduction, women’s health and wellness, grief and loss, and living well with chronic illness and pain. Jen teaches people to develop a regular mindfulness practice and integrate it into everyday life. She guides people to develop clear and mindful intentions and then design a life that is congruent with their intentions. Check out Jen’s Mindful Life Design coaching program for women.