Fear - A Survival Mechanism

By Ray Bertani

What is Fear and how can we manage it?

Fear is something that has been bred into us. At one time it served a very useful purpose and still can today. Fear is our way of protecting us from great bodily harm or a threat to our survival. The unfortunate part is that we have generalized fear to the point that we use it in a way that hinders our growth and possibilities. All too often, fear is used as a reason to not follow through on something. Fear has become our protector from disappointment, not from bodily harm, as was intended. No one is going to be physically hurt or die because a business venture failed, or because he or she got turned down for a date, or even if you lose your job.

Search your past for times when you have not attained your desired outcome. Maybe it was a test that you failed in University, an idea that got shot down by your boss, losing an important client, or even being fired from your job. Did you die? Did you lose a limb? The answer of course is no. In fact, and for the most part we look back at our disappointments with a certain level of fondness. Sometimes we even laugh about them. We've all said at one time or another, "I'll laugh about this later". Well why wait? Laugh now. Sometimes we even find ourselves in better positions because of our past disappointments. Yet at the time even the mere thought of these types of setbacks paralyze us to the point of inaction. It is natural to feel fear.

That doesn't mean that you have to give into it. Jack Canfield, co-author of "Chicken Soup for the Soul" likes to say, "Feel the fear, and do it anyway". Feel the fear, take a deep breath, tell yourself that no bodily harm can come to you as a result of this action, see it for what it is...an opportunity to grow, no matter the result. Acknowledge the fact that your past disappointments have not destroyed you, they have made you stronger. Most importantly, follow through; take the next step toward your goal, whatever it may be. Don't let an instinct that was intended to protect you from great bodily harm, keep you from getting what you want. Learn to manage your fear and see it for what it is...a survival mechanism. Control it...don't let it control you.

Ray Bertani is a Human Resources Consultant, Public Speaker and Leadership and Personal development Trainer and Coach. He is the Managing Director and Founder of "Cura Solutions", a Professional and Personal Development firm located in the Metro Vancouver area of British Columbia, Canada, dedicated to helping great people achieve their potential. If you would like to inquire about Cura's Coaching and Training Programs or book Ray to speak at your next Corporate or Association Conference or Event, he can be reached by email at ray@curasolutions.ca or by phone at 604-802-4490 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 604-802-4490 end_of_the_skype_highlighting.

Cura Personal Development Solutions prides itself on adding significant and lasting value to each and every client it serves. For more information on how "Cura Solutions" can help you achieve your potential, visit them at www.curasolutions.ca and click on the personal development icon.

Free eNewsletter

Sign Up for Joanne's mail list in the left hand column by adding your first name and primary email address and receive the latest updates, free articles and reports delivered to your inbox!