TIP #7, October 2011

Managing Fear

The first thing to know about managing fear - so that it doesn’t stop you in your tracks - is that it’s natural. Fear is an instinctive reaction to the unknown, and when we’re on the brink of change we’re confronting the unknown. What matters here isn’t to “conquer” the fear but to give it its rightful place as you move forward. Acknowledge it, examine it –i.e. look for any kernels of truth it holds – and recommit to (or reconsider) your purpose.

Here are some helpful perspectives about fear. Pick one, or several, and display it prominently in your line of vision every day.

Fear usually comes from the ego anticipating a bruise: a failure, an embarrassment, a loss of something assumed to be essential. Do you really want to be ruled by your ego?

The way to deal with fear is to find a way to get outside yourself. This usually means living a life of gratitude.   (Thank you, Tom Robbins)

Fear is simply a test of your commitment. Focus on what’s most             important to you. Concentrate on what you want rather than on what you don’t want (i.e. what’s frightening you).

Without fear, there is no courage. Have you the courage to move beyond self-limiting beliefs and commit to what you really want?

Ask yourself, “What’s the worst that can happen?” And then examine whether avoiding those things is worth staying stuck.

How fed up do you have to be to let courage triumph over fear?

If shifting perspectives on fear doesn’t release you back into action, you may want to consider partnering with a career coach to assure your progress.

If you’d like to discuss how I can assist you, please contact me.

If you have friends or colleagues anticipating a career change, please forward this to them and invite them to subscribe.

Visit the Career Search Tips archives.