I know all about fear, or at least, I've lived through my fair share of it. Strong introduction, but I wanted to get your attention, and then tell you briefly about my experience with fear, and overcoming it. I am not going to suggest that my recommendation is the only way, or that it will work for everyone. However, I do know that when there is a problem, one of the only ways to deal with it is to face it head on. There is little to be gained by trying to go around it, and hope for the best that nothing will hurt us on the way. The simple fact is that when we get over our fears, we are better, and stronger people, and realise we can do so much more, but perhaps, I am getting ahead of myself here.

So, let's look at yourself first. The chances are you're familiar with the concept of driving, and you know you need to follow a map. In addition to knowing where you want to go, you need to know where you currently are. Hence, you may not like this bit, but it is essential to actually look hard at where you are right now, in order to move forward. By being brutally honest, you will be better placed to move forward, either because of greater clarity, or just a determination that you are not happy where you are. So, where to from here?

I have found that list writing works well for me, and gives me a good starting base to work from. You may find that meditation, or just quiet time in your favourite spot will do the trick. It does not matter how, but just get yourself into a quiet place and mood where you can accurately look at all your fears and concerns. This is not about beating yourself up, but rather, allowing yourself a true reflection of your current state. When you know this, you will be better able to move onto the next phase.

Being a list writer myself, I will then list next to each problem, a series of possible solutions. The fact is that more often than not, you know what you need to do, to overcome your problem. You have just being trying to hide from it, because that has been comfortable. However, moving out of your comfort zone is the key to overcoming your fears, no matter what they may be. I would love to say there is an easier way, but that is the way. For what it's worth, consider this point- that as you move into a newly uncomfortable place, your mind and consciousness will become more comfortable, after familiarity with your newly discovered zone of discomfort. In plain terms, as you move into an uncomfortable zone, you slowly become comfortable with it, because you realise you are still alive, and breathing, and going to be OK. Hence, as you stretch yourself, like a rubber band, you never return to the same limited size, or place of fear.

I know that you may still be in a state of fear, even seemingly paralysed by it. Please excuse my possible forthrightness at this point, as your fear may be much more mild. However, I am trying to make a point, that being no matter how bad you think something is, you are built better and tougher than the fear you have. It is one of those things I will ask you to have faith in me for, at this stage, till you prove it to yourself. I know it is much easier said than done, but I assure you that it does work.

If you are challenged by this at this time, look at something that is placing a small degree of fear in front of you. It's like starting small, so you can have small wins, and move on from there. This way, you will develop confidence, and ease into it. This is OK, as long as you can honestly say to yourself that you have done something to move forward. But do not use this as a constantly delaying tactic. That will not work.

Now, I recommend keeping a detailed journal, as this will help you see over time. Like two weeks, a month, and so on from now, that you are making progress. On the other hand, you may well find that you have made such leaps ahead, that you will jumping for joy, and very aware of your progress. Either way, I really do find that doing what you fear will liberate you. I am not suggesting it is easy, but it is a worthwhile goal, and something to proceed with, rather than to procrastinate over.