[Daily OM]: Everyone has fears -- it is a
natural part of being human. Fear can protect us from harm by sending a
rush of adrenaline to help us physically deal with potential danger. But
there are times when fear may keep us from participating fully in life.
Once we realize that fear is a state of mind, we can choose to face our
fears, change our minds, and create the life we want to live.
Our minds are powerful tools to be used by our higher selves; like
computers, storing and using data to make certain connections between
thought and response. We have the ability to observe these and choose
differently. No matter where the fear came from, we can create new
connections by choosing new thoughts. When our souls and minds are in
alignment, we create a new experience of reality. This journey requires
many small steps, as well as patience and courage through the process.
Here's an example: You decide to overcome your fear of driving on the
freeway. Your plan of action starts with examining your thoughts and
finding a new way of seeing the situation. When you're ready, you enlist
a calm companion to support you as you take the first step of merging
into the slow lane and using the first exit. Your heart may be racing,
but your confidence will be boosted by the accomplishment. Repeat this
until you are comfortable, with or without help, and then drive one exit
further. When you are ready, you can try driving in the middle lane,
for longer periods each time, until you find yourself going where you
want to go. This gradual process is similar for conquering any fear, but
if you find it overwhelming, you can always seek the help of a
professional.
You may think that you are the only one with a particular fear, that
nobody else could possibly be scared of ordinary things such as water,
heights, public speaking, or flying. These types of fears are very
common, and you can have great success overcoming them. Remember, it is
not the absence of the fear but the courage to take action anyway that
determines success. When we learn to face our fears, we learn to observe
our thoughts and feelings but not be ruled by them. Instead we choose
how to shape the lives we want.