I heard this question the other day on a podcast and I could feel the fear rising from my belly just from listening. When I sat down to actually write about this, the flutters in my stomach grew greater. I know that I have done a lot of things over the years that felt scary—but I did them anyway. What things did I avoid doing altogether because I was just too afraid? I am certain there are many things I passed up. However, rather than go in that direction I thought I’d take a different tact. Instead of working from the place of fear, how about working from the imagination place of anything is possible and there are no negative repercussions? That feels better. My shoulders are already relaxing.
It’s an interesting practice. Write down as quickly as possible without great thought all the things you might do if you weren’t scared. Skydiving. Seriously I really think it would be amazing to fly in the air (never mind the landing). Sailing around the Caribbean. Join an adult amateur sports team—maybe field hockey. Move to the beach. Write that novel already! This is getting easier now as I get on a roll. Lead dancing power sessions. Work with kids. Volunteer (fear of loss of freedom if you were wondering). Go to more events (is that fear or laziness 🙂 ). You get the idea.
Try it yourself and see what comes up. You might be surprised to realize that you can do many of these things and they aren’t all that scary at all. Or maybe you’ll find that you are already doing so much and fear isn’t stopping you. And then again, perhaps you really aren’t doing a lot of things that you want to in your life because you are afraid.
If you aren’t one to close your eyes and jump, it doesn’t mean you can’t go after things that sound scary. If you really, really, really want to do something but you are afraid, ask for support. Find a group in your area of interest. Take a class. Talk to someone who is doing the activity or living the life that you want but are afraid of. Get a coach. Write down your wants and dreams in a journal. Brainstorm with a supportive friend how you can dip your toe into this seemingly impossible activity. Create your own group of likeminded souls to develop your dreams. Break down the things you would do if you weren’t scared and see if you can develop a safe way in. What sounds scary now might be easy for you with a little practice or with the right support.
By exploring the possibilities for your life, you are far more likely to accomplish seemingly scary things. Going for what you want even if it brings up fear will result in a richer, fuller life.
xoxo Rachel
Wondrance 