I am glad that you are reading this short blog. If you choose to apply the 4 Ways to Manage Fear, you will begin an exciting journey of life change
Self-observation can be very useful—if it leads to growth instead of self-blame.
I’ve spent much of my career helping people watch their thoughts and behaviors. Too often, people are close to a breakthrough in life, relationships, or work, but they lose it by focusing on fear and self-doubt. Many don’t even realize how their self-talk defeats them. They say they want change and would do almost anything to get it. But when action is needed, they freeze, hesitate, or back out. The reason is usually the inner voice that questions every step.
Would you like practical ways to push fear back? Try these 4 ways to Manage Fear.
Feel the fear—and act anyway.
My wife Angie hates heights. Still, she decided to try tandem parasailing on her 60th birthday. She told friends about her plan so they’d support her and hold her accountable. When the day came, she climbed into the harness and rose 400 feet above the water. She was scared, but she did it—and felt proud afterward.
We all feel fear. The people who succeed are the ones who act despite fear. When you name the fear and face it, others will often support you.
Stop making excuses.
As a cadet, I learned from Command Sergeant Major Scott: if you look for excuses, you’ll find one. People use “I don’t have time” or “I don’t know anyone” as reasons to quit. Excuses are often a way to escape because of self-doubt.
If you want different results, practice a “no excuses” attitude. Decide how badly you want change. Choose results over reasons.
Leave your comfort zone.
Many successful people reinvent themselves and push boundaries. Staying safe is easy; growth usually requires discomfort. Quotes from public figures show the same lesson: face rejection, get back up, and try again.
If you want better relationships, more success, or personal growth, be willing to feel uncomfortable for a short time. The question is: will you trade brief discomfort for a better life? If yes, expect new blessings and opportunities.
Just do it.
Dreaming won’t get you where you want to go. You must act—take risks, and keep moving past doubts. When you decide to change, accept responsibility for your life. Don’t blame others for your choices. Negative self-talk causes “decision constipation”—it keeps you stuck.
Start by deciding. Then work. Action breaks the cycle of fear and self-sabotage.
Many well-known people faced large setbacks before success. For example, Hillary Scott of Lady Antebellum failed two American Idol auditions but later helped start a hugely successful band. Her story and others show that grit, resilience, and persistence matter.
To push through fear, have a clear Why and a strong goal. Let that purpose be bigger than your fear.
Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will uphold you with my victorious right hand. Isaiah 41:10 NLT
I think this song by Zach Williams says it all.
May God richly bless you as you work on these 4 ways to manage fear.
ACTION PLAN:
Quit living in denial, acknowledge your fear, and with God’s help, move through it.
Links
My Website: www.johnthurman.net
Overcome Fear with Faith – Inspiration.org
Defet Fear with These 10 Steps – John Thurman
