We are conditioned as children to circumvent taboo topics in an effort to coexist peacefully on this planet. Topics that uncover controversial ideas are not meant to be mentioned and barely even thought about. Today I’d like to introduce a subject which is bound to unveil some uncomfortable emotions, but can actually help you plan your future: Fear.
Fear fills our body to alert us of a perceived sense of danger, but fear can actually help us in more than just fight or flight instances. A relatively new exercise called fear setting actually helps us measure our fears and develop our dreams through them, not around them. It can be the perception shift you’ve been waiting for.
Fear setting basically works like this:
- First, imagine your craziest dreams and goals. Those goals you always wanted to do, but never quite had the courage. The goals you always thought there’d be a better time for, but it’s been years without progress.
- Next, ask yourself, “What’s the worst thing that could happen if I pursued this goal and failed?” Would my life really be over if I failed? Would things be that bad I couldn’t recover and work myself out again?
- Lastly, work through this thought process by imagining yourself taking on this goal full-heartedly and unbeknownst to the outcome. At this point you might realize how the journey, process, and experience is actually worth more to you than the outcome itself. You will start to detach yourself from the “results” which is where the magic happens. Now you can focus solely on putting in 100% effort and get to the grind.
One of the worst feelings is realizing you’re holding yourself back. It’s more gut-wrenching than making a mistake, because at least you can learn from it and know you tried. Nothing is worse than wondering what could’ve been if you had only believed in yourself.
Stop listening to your inner critic, and start taking life by the horns!!
What are some dreams you’ve never given yourself the chance to pursue? What factors have led you to not pursing your dreams? Is it fear, lack of courage, or something else?
Or if you have gone out on a limb to chase your dreams… What is the best parcel of advice you would share with a friend who was unsure of themselves?
I hope you enjoyed this exercise and plan to make some changes in your life or share with others. Namaste!
My personal blog can be found here: http://www.poemsandprose.travel.blog