Fear – an emotion that can grip us tightly, leaving us paralyzed and unable to move forward. It's a natural response to perceived threats, whether they're physical, emotional, or psychological. Often, fear is triggered by external factors, such as challenging circumstances, unfamiliar situations, or the words and actions of others.
I am right now facing crippling fear and anxiety while doing things I have done well before. I am back in the water surfing after a spine surgery and everything feels different. My body, my movements and especially my mindset. I was trying to be back where I was, knowing I can´t be back there just yet and that I have to give myself time and have patience. And I tell you one thing, I don’t have any of that. On a rational bases I know I have to adapt and everything will be fine. But at the same time, it feels like I will never get over my new created fear, stemming from the fact that I don´t feel like trusting my body anymore. So right now, it’s a mix of disappointment in me, fear, anxiety and a lot of pressure. All these combined are a receipt for an absolute disaster.
Fear originates from our primal instinct for self-preservation. When faced with danger, our bodies release adrenaline, preparing us for fight or flight. While this response is crucial for survival, it can also be triggered by non-life-threatening situations, such as public speaking, starting a new job, or confronting personal insecurities. It can get even worse through negative influences like criticism, rejection, or discouragement; from uncertainty or past trauma.
There are well known proactive strategies to overcome fear besides just blindly jumping in, like identifying the triggers, challenging your negative beliefs, practicing mindfulness, seeking support, visualizing success and celebrate any kind of progress.
But I tell you something, this time none of them have worked. Maybe I didn’t give it enough time, but it doesn’t matter, as I found a way that helped me way more.
In the past I got over my fears by straight up facing them with pressure and a lot of failure. But what I am actually learning right now, is taking some steps back and relearning things, as this exactly gives me the space to breathe and to face my fears with gentleness, compassion and a slowness I needed so much. Maybe reading this, you start thinking, this is how most people do it. But for me it was just not an option I ever thought about. The more I adapt to the new situation and accepting it for what it is, the more I think to myself, what a great chance it is to restart again and embrace the change that comes with it. Leaving my ego behind, it feels like I have given the chance to hit the reset button.
In letting go of the familiar, I am compelled to unlearn ingrained habits and bid farewell to behaviors that no longer serve me. With each step forward, I am reminded that fear is not the enemy but rather a companion on the journey of self-discovery. It urges me to confront my limitations, to push beyond the boundaries of comfort, and to embrace the unfamiliar with open arms. It is through this process of confronting fear in a different way compared to the past, that I find the courage to embrace change and to seize the opportunity for growth.
I am learning that every challenge is an opportunity in disguise. With each obstacle I overcome daily, I am regaining my confidence and find my passion and happiness in it again. This is just the best f*** feeling in the world. I emerge stronger, more resilient, and more attuned to the fact, that I am gaining back my control not through pressure but through letting go.
By now I am more than convinced there is insane possibility in taking some steps back and be a beginner again in whatever you do, to slowly but surely get over your fear. For some, it might still be best to jump face first into the fear. But for me right now, it´s the exact opposite. And gosh, I love this process so much and think it was exactly the lesson I needed so badly.
Fear may always be present in our lives, but it doesn't have to control us. By understanding the origins of fear, recognizing external triggers, and implementing proactive strategies for empowerment, we can cultivate courage and resilience in the face of adversity. Remember, you are in full control and possess the inner strength to overcome any obstacle that stands in your way. Embrace fear as a catalyst for growth, and let it propel you towards a life filled with courage, confidence, and boundless possibilities. Cheers to a never-ending process of self-discovery and renewal.
xx baj.