With our planet under stress and lives riddled with so much uncertainty, a natural subsequent knee-jerk reaction is to flee in fear, overtly attempting to escape the craziness that often surrounds the unknown.
Fear activates our nervous system into a frenzied state, a heightened condition triggering the ‘fight or flight’ mode, rendering our bodies to be on amplified alert – our body’s defence mechanism activated to keep us safe.
Unsustainable in its nature, fear can galvanise our bodies into overdrive, and if left unattended will eventually equate to complete degeneration.
First and foremost, acknowledge your fear. Denying or suppressing its overpowering intensity can manifest its hold over you. If we allow fear to consume us, it can easily hinder our resilience and growth, which in turn will create the adverse reaction of rendering us unable to perform even mundane daily activities.
When we might feel out of control, we can reframe the nervousness to empower our choices and find ways to move through the pain. Navigating through the overwhelming debilitating nature which fear can instigate, is a process that requires self-awareness, emotional regulation and strategic structures to take heed of our responses.
Fear often distorts our perception of reality. Our minds tend to exaggerate potential negative outcomes, leading us to expect the worst-case scenario. Sometimes, fear is more a projection of our anxieties than a reflection of actual danger. By distinguishing between real risks and imagined ones, we can regain control over our thoughts.
Otherwise, fear can render us paralysed. Often producing intense physical reactions, learning to manage these physiological symptoms can help calm our mind. Mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation can activate our body’s relaxation response, reducing the physical symptoms of fear, pulling our attention away from future anxieties and help us think more clearly.
Fear thrives in isolation hence sharing it with trusted friends, family or a mentor can provide perspective and support. Often, others can help us see the situation more clearly or offer guidance based on their own experiences. You may also realise that you are not alone in your fears, which can be comforting.
Fear often stems from uncertainty about the future or things beyond your control. While it’s easy to dwell on the unknown, shifting your focus to what you can control helps reduce apprehension. Break down the situation into elements you can influence and direct your energy towards managing those aspects.
Fear is an inevitable part of life, and it doesn’t have to consume you. By acknowledging it, separating it from reality, practicing mindfulness, reframing it as an opportunity, seeking support, and focusing on what you can control, you will subsequently face fear with confidence and move forward with greater courage.
Fear will always be present, however taking responsibility for your choices, reframing your feelings, and supercharging your relaxation strategies are forthright ingredients to ensure you don’t get impeded from being fraught with dread, to living the life you desire.
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