How to Act in Spite of Fear!

Most of us allow our fears to limit what we achieve in our lives. Most of what we fear never happens, yet we allow it to profoundly affect us. To act in spite of our fear, we need to identify what we are actually afraid of, and the expected positive outcomes of moving forward.

• What things are you afraid of doing? Begin by identifying the activities and things you would like (in your life and business) that are not happening due to fear. Complete this sentence: I would like to do (or achieve)_________, but I am afraid of what might happen. Make a list.
  
  
• Identify the specific fear that is holding you back. Now clearly identify what you are actually afraid of. For example, the first time I swam across the Columbia River, I was terrified and fearful. I thought about all the things that could happen to me (a shark attack - even though there are no sharks in the river).
  
  
• Identify the worst and best potential outcomes of doing what you are afraid of doing. In the above example, the worst thing that could happen is that I could drown - even though I was wearing a buoyant wetsuit which would of prevented that. The best thing that could happen is that I would become comfortable with swimming in a large body of water and actually enjoy myself and finish the event (which is what happened). The upside outweighs the downside, which is usually the case.
  
  
• Eliminate disempowering and limiting language. Many of my clients unknowingly disempower themselves by using negative words that weaken their motivation. These words include: hope, maybe, perhaps, and should. Become aware when you use these words. By eliminating these words from your vocabulary, you will feel more empowered and confident.
  
  
• Act in Spite of Fear. The difference between successful people and less successful people is that the successful people feel the fear and move forward anyway. So, begin to do those things that are fearful - and you will quickly realize that you can act in spite of fear. Remember that fear really stands for False Expectations Appearing Real.