In the March 2020 Newsletter
  You Can Overcome Fear

“The only thing we have to fear is… fear itself.”
    Franklin D. Roosevelt, 1933 inaugural address

These are fearful, challenging times. We are bombarded in society with messages that intend to inform and help, yet they oftentimes make us more afraid. Fear breeds more fear. You can turn these challenging times into more hopeful times by letting go of fear. It does require persistence and practice, however.

In my research about factors that help and hurt in successfully pursuing a passionate purpose, I asked people what holds them back and what encourages them in their pursuit. One of the biggest hindrances is FEAR. Fear causes self-doubt, anxiety, and anger. Fear is a heavy burden. What would your life be like if you could cast out that fear?

Sometimes it makes sense to be fearful. Fear can force you to take action and avoid danger. During the COVID-19 pandemic, for example, fear of the virus is reason enough to enact social distancing, promote thorough hand washing, and practice self isolation. However, so often fear is NOT rational. Fear is often irrational. It can turn into obsessiveness — thinking about something over and over until you’re immobilized. Fear can block effective movement.

Once you’re aware of the negative impact of fear, the next step is to take appropriate action. Use the “Pack Strategy” (Ch. 12 in Pursuit of Passionate Purpose) to unpack hindrances and pack energizers for your journey.

Here are Practical Pointers

	LEAD. Take positive action, be calm, and be strong. Often this means focusing less on yourself and more on helping others. Work on being fearless.
	SELECT. Get in touch with what triggers fear in you. Be selective in what and whom you listen to, watch, surf online, invest time in, and talk to.
	USE GOOD JUDGMENT. Determine if your fear is rational or irrational. If irrational, force yourself to quiet your mind and focus on positive aspects of life. When there is real danger, your body reflexively mobilizes to avoid it, minimize it, or fight through it.
	BE POSITIVE. Repeat positive affirmations. Think of the good work being done by government employees, medical personnel, public health workers, non-profits, and businesses to proactively address the current challenges and ensure your safety.
	SURROUND. Circle yourself with less fearful people. Surround yourself with people who are not afraid. A recent research study showed that happiness is contagious. If you’re around happy people, you will be happier. If you’re around fearful people, you will be more fearful. So find happy, kind, unafraid people with whom to associate.

Summary

We human beings are strong and resilient, perhaps stronger than we even know. Unpack fear itself from your life. Strive to become a leader, be aware of fear triggers, use good judgment, stay positive, and surround yourself with unafraid people.

Check out my latest blog posts about business, career, and life performance.

Enjoy the Journey

Theresa M. Szczurek, Ph.D.
Colorado CIO, Certified Management Consultant, Author, and Speaker

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