Realize that fear is a just a name you give to a certain physical feeling. Fear really is more of a psychologically created construct.

Where does fear come into play in your life?

It can be useful to think of fear as a message from your subconscious. The message states, "Hey, we think something might be wrong." It is then your job to rationally determine if there really is something to be concerned about.

• Hanging of the side of a cliff would be a legitimate cause for concern in most cases. In this case, your life may be in danger so there is something to fear.
• However, being afraid of speaking to a group of people may be uncomfortable, but there is no real danger. What is the worst that could happen other than a little embarrassment if it doesn't go well?

What are you fearful of? Is it really justified? Be honest.

Each time you push through fear, your fear-conquering muscle gets stronger. Unfortunately, the opposite is equally true. Every time you avoid taking an action due to fear, you're strengthening your fear.

• Psychologists call this type of avoidance negative reinforcement. This is a fancy way of referring to avoidance being psychologically rewarding. If you run away from the scary thing, you do feel better.
• While you may feel better at first, it also increases the fear felt the next time in a similar situation.
• If you avoid what frightens you, your brain realizes the fear manipulated you and will use the same strategy against you the next time.

Will you be more brave from now on?

Keep the desired end result in mind. No human is capable of thinking of two things simultaneously. You might be able to switch back and forth between several things rapidly, but that's not the same thing.

• Only focus on your goal and it is impossible to feel the fear.
• It's easier said than done, but that's what meditation really is: the ability to focus on something to the exclusion of everything else.

What do you really want?

The hardest part of facing your fear is getting started. Avoid getting bogged down with the details. Most people never get out of the planning stage. Take the first step, and the next step will reveal itself.

Are you ready to start right now?

Consider how long it took you to learn to walk and talk. If you can learn to do those things, you can certainly learn how to face and eliminate your fears. Be confident in yourself and you will succeed.

What have you already accomplished in your life? Make a list and smile.