5 Ways to Move through Fear

by Grace Van Berkum, R.H.N.

Fear can keep you safe, but it can also keep you down. Take control of your life by moving through fear.

Fear is a part of our everyday lives. Whether facing a big decision or a small one, fear is subjective and often surfaces as a result of our past programming or the experiences we’ve gone through. The most successful people often say their dreams are achieved not because they are fearless, but because they move through their fear instead of being paralyzed by it.

Here are five Gracious Living tips to help you move through your own fear so you can keep growing and moving forward in life to unravel life’s gifts and miracles instead of staying stuck in your own comfort zone.

1. Really think about the pros and cons

What are the benefits of trying something new? What are the disadvantages? If things don’t go the way you want them to, is it really that bad? Can you resort to a “Plan B”? Can you live with the regret of not moving forward? Can you truly be happy knowing that you didn’t try something and never knowing if it was the right thing for you? Only you can answer those questions. Life is precious. Don’t miss out on amazing opportunities to be even happier by exposing yourself to new things.

2. Seek advice, seek inspiration

Talk to people who have done this before. Talk to people you look up to. Find out how they have moved through fear to achieve their goals.

3. Surround yourself with people who elevate you and support you

Be with people who want you to live your dreams and be happy, rather than people who are judgmental and negative—a result of their own unhappiness, not yours. Don’t let other people’s insecurities hold you back.

“Set your life on fire. Seek those who fan your flames.” ~Rumi

4. Break down what you need to do into smaller steps

Take baby steps. Work towards achieving each step, without trying to think too far in the future, which often causes more fear and anxiety. Stay present at each level of your task. This will build a strong foundation as you move towards your bigger goal.

5. Believe

Believe in yourself, not just because you’re totally prepared and you’ve done all the steps necessary to finally implement the plan or choice that causes you fear, but more than that, believe the universe has your back. The universe wants you to thrive. The universe wants you to excel. Sometimes the gifts from the universe come in different packages than we could ever imagine, but just know the universe wants to support your amazingness.

Connect to your courage, connect to your power, stop over-thinking things, have positivity and love behind you from family, friends, and mentors, have a strong foundation through preparation, and then take action.

It’s better to try than wonder “what if.” Life is too short to miss out on all the gifts it has to offer. It’s better to live and make mistakes than to hold back and have regrets. Connect to your inner strength and your inner love and move through your fear.The only person holding you back is yourself. If you’re reading this and it’s resonating with you, I want you to know something: I believe in you. I believe in you because I believe in me, and we are all connected. You can do it.

Learn how to make good decisions!