Artwork by: illumistrations

Think about what scares you—that one thing that stops you from doing something you want or even need to do at times. Got it! Now how can you conqueror it?

STAND TALL SOLIDER

One of my biggest fears is failure. I hate disappointing people or better yet I hate that “I’ve lost” feeling that burns down whatever confidence I once had. It sucks! I mean who really enjoys feeling like they’ve falling short of goal, want or desire? Short answer: No one. But over time I’ve been able to transform that “L” into a step toward a future “W”.

What are those wise words that leaders tell their soldiers? “They may have won the battle but we’ll win the war.”

Yep, that’s the truth. You can never stop moving, fighting or focusing on your goal. Consistent dedication wins half the battle.

STEP IT UP SHERO

No matter what your fear may be, you can conqueror it. See if these five steps—the same steps I have to use for myself—help you overcome this seemingly impossible task.

1. Take a moment to understand your fear
How did it even become a fear? Was it something someone told you or you experienced? Is it something of tangible danger or is it just mental barrier you’ve fabricated? Self-sabotage much?

2. Write or talk out solutions to the fear
Personally, I like to do both. Writing them out in a journal lets me visually see what the fear is and whether my fear is exaggerated or just. Talking them out with a close friend does the same but makes me listen to my own words. Do I sound foolish? Normally, either route points out that I do in some form.

Solutions to our fear(s) may range from something rational like spraying the perimeter of your house to keep out bugs to something a little move extreme like moving to a different country to open up your restaurant so you don’t have to be judged by family or friends.

3. Narrow down your solutions to things you can ACTUALLY implement TOMORROW
This is key because it helps to put things in to a realistic perspective. Now this doesn’t mean to disregard those more “outlandish” solutions, as you may need to tap into them one day. It’s all about taking steps as soon as possible which is usually the next day or for some it maybe the next minute.

4. Turn off your brain and start implementing your solution(s)
I advise “turning off your brain” for two reason; 1) You will over-analyze the solution or 2) You will talk yourself completely out of it, letting your fear(s) win. The object isn’t to necessary overcome your fear tomorrow but to take solace in steps you are taking down that path.

5. Share your story
I believe our true mission in life is to be able to testify and share our struggles with the next person. Your testimony could result in unknowingly (or even knowingly) helping the next person them down their own fearful path. Being able to share what your fear(s) were and how you overcame it not only gives you power over your fears, but it empowers the next person to follow suit.

You came, you saw and you conquered—just like the superheroes we read about. Remember: You never know…your story and solution may make you a shero for the next person.

GO GRAB YOUR CAPE

So the moral of the story is simple: if you fear the dark, invest in a nightlight or better yet get another job so you can afford to leave your lights on at night. Or maybe you fear losing your job? Invest in yourself and see how you can get to a point where you are indispensable whether it is through new training, a new degree or maybe it’s just in a different role.

This week, I challenge you to tackle your fear head on. It may not seem important to knock it out immediately, but wouldn’t you hate for years to pass and you suddenly realize that that one fear caused you to miss your purpose–missing out on some of life’s exciting and priceless moments.

Get your “sword” out, your cape on or eat some spinach. Let the battle behind. We can’t wait to hear your story.

Share your “conquering a fear” story below. Someone may need to hear it today.