The thought of being trapped within the walls of a prison may make you cringe; yet, your fears keep you trapped in a prison of your own making. Fears keep you imprisoned by beliefs, attitudes and behaviours that control and limit your life.
Think of one belief you've had that has restricted your life in some way. Here's an example: I grew up with a belief that I wasn't athletic. I had no idea I was limiting my life until, at age 38, under pressure from friends who didn't buy into my belief, I learned to ski. Not only did I love it, I skied well. I decided my old belief was false, took up squash and won a medal for my sporty efforts. Athletic? You bet I am!
Your personal F.E.A.R. makeover
You can overcome your fears in 5 simple steps. Remember to have fun. Make this fear-facing experience enjoyable by buying a nice notebook along with a few of your favourite coloured pens. Decide to embark on self-exploration with an attitude of enthusiasm and excitement. Be completely honest and non-judgmental with yourself. Let the following exercise help you uncover things about your inner self that you didn't know. When you have different information, you can make different decisions. You may even decide that some of your fears aren't so real after all.
Page 1
On the first page of your notebook, write the following title:
F.E.A.R. = False. Experiences. Appearing. Real.
Under this title, write these questions:
1. Is this fear just a F.E.A.R.?
2. Is it an anticipated fear -- something I've made huge by energizing it with too much thought?
3. Is this fear really mine or did it come from someone else?
4. How much has this fear affected my life?
5. Is there something I get from keeping this fear?
6. What has this fear cost me?
7. Do I still want to pay the price?
8. What will I be like if I no longer have this fear?
9. Am I ready to free myself from this fear?
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