Removing Obstacles Created by Fear

Posted on February 22, 2010 by Chris and Janet Attwood

Question:
How do I deal with and overcome the fears that create the obstacle towards living a passionate life?

Answer:
That is a very good question and no doubt many people can relate to your concerns.  The interesting thing about fear is that it becomes a bigger obstacle as we give it more attention.  Our fear of failure is likely the most common and most powerful force that keeps us from making our dreams come true.  When your focus and attention is on fear, you create those things you don’t want to happen.  Out of fear you might not take any steps towards your goal and that will manifest what you did not want.  

There are a couple of methods for approaching your fears without giving them your full attention.  The first is what we call the Head-On approach.  You may recall the story of Tellman Knudson who was scared to death to pursue a very lofty dream but rather than let it stop him, he focused on the excitement of the challenge.  He went full-force into his plan to become successful, all with the sense of exhilaration rather than fear. Tellmen was successful in his efforts because he directed his attention toward what got him excited and not what scared him.

Another method for facing fear is the Step-by-Step Approach.  If fear immobilizes you to the point of inactivity because of the sheer enormity of your goal, you would benefit from breaking things up into small steps.  You will build your confidence with each step you accomplish and you can put your attention on these successes rather than on what you have not yet completed.  Use affirmations or pose questions to yourself to help keep you focused.  If you get stuck recognizing your own successes, ask friends and family to help.  You will be pleasantly surprised by the positive observations they make about you.  Write these qualities down and keep them in full view so that you can put your attention on all of the good that you represent and quiet the inner critic.  

If you fear or other internal obstacles are holding you back, one of the most effective ways to deal with these is to have support. That’s why we designed the Passionate Life Secrets program that will give you weekly lessons and action steps to take so you can begin living your passionate life. Take a few minutes now to hear the video in which Janet shares the secret that will guarantee you a passionate life, and begin the Passionate Life Secrets program for just $6.97. http://bit.ly/csmpEA

If you have questions about what it takes to live a passionate life, then please join us on our monthly “Discover Your Passions” calls. We’ll take a volunteer through The Passion Test process and answer your questions. Use this link to register and submit your question.  We look forward to connecting with you soon.  http://bit.ly/bvE9ab