Fear often arises because of a lack of knowledge. It holds us hostage when we do not know what will happen, what to do next or how it will work out. Fear stops us because our basic survival need kicks in and we tell ourselves that it's better to be safe than sorry. No, it's not, and fear can be reduced in a few different ways:

• Shine a headlight on it, look it full in the face and really see it for what it is. Does it truly relate to now or is it an old belief that is no longer relevant?
  
• Check in and see if there is any real basis for the fear. Do you need to reassess some part of your plan? If so do it. If not then:
  
• Feel the fear and do it anyway (great book by Susan Jeffers). Literally what it says on the cover. Fear is part of our lives, allow it to be there and get on with the job in hand.
  
• Get informed. Fear is often a lack of knowledge - the ‘I don't know how to'. Fill the gaps and see then if it still in charge.
  
• Talk about it with trusted friends. Often a fear will reduce when put into perspective through talking.
  
• Address it. Is there something you can do that will actually remove the fear? This might be a conversation with someone, practising a skill until you feel comfortable, getting better training, anything that meets the fear and answers it.

EXERCISE

This is something you can do to help you face fear in the moment.

1. Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths and just begin by being with yourself.
2. Begin to feel where this fear is in your body and without judgement or resistance simply name your fear
3. Breath deeply into this space and feel the energy associated with the fear and simply allow it to be there, feel it totally.
4. Keeping your focus on this space and watch and see if begins to change, if it does just let it. Fear is an energy just like any other energy and often when focused upon it can dissipate.
5. By simply allowing your fear you stop resisting it and it can shift and change. After a while shift your focus onto your heart and feel this moment as it is, with no need to change it.
6. Ask yourself, how do I feel now? Often the smallest shift can make way for you to move past your fear.